Tacos and Indian Fry Bread

Indian Tacos have always held a special place in my heart. My first taste was likely as soon as my mom could serve it to me, and ever since, it became a staple of my annual visit to the State Fair. The allure of the fair was not just the rides but the unique, once-a-year foods like Corn Dogs, Candy Apples, and of course, Indian Tacos. Sadly, not every State Fair features Indian Tacos, but if you haven’t had the pleasure, imagine the best Taco Salad you’ve ever had, but with a hearty, delicious bread base.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings the fairground magic right into your kitchen. The fry bread is fluffy yet crisp, making it a perfect vessel for the savory taco toppings. It’s a fun twist on traditional tacos, offering a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels
• Skillet

Ingredients

For Fry Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 4 cups oil for frying, or as needed

Toppings:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon Taco Seasoning (use your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1 15 oz. can Ranch Style Beans (or any chili beans)
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
• 1/4 cup chopped onions (optional)
• Additional toppings: Sour cream, picante or taco sauce, guacamole

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing the Recipe

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add milk, stirring until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough gently until smooth, then let it rest for about 30 minutes.
3. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
4. Divide the dough into small balls and flatten each into a disc about 1/4 inch thick.
5. Carefully place each disc in the hot oil, frying until golden brown on both sides. Remove and drain on paper towels.
6. In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Stir in taco seasoning and beans, heating through.
7. Top each fry bread with a generous scoop of the beef and bean mixture.
8. Add shredded cheese, lettuce, onions, and any other desired toppings.

Tips for Success

Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the bread to achieve a crispy texture. Allowing the dough to rest is crucial for a tender bread. Personalize the toppings to suit your taste preferences.

Additional Tips or Variations

For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce. You can also switch up the protein by using ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian option, use black beans instead of ground beef.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 450, Protein: 20g, Carbohydrates: 35g, Fat: 25g, Fiber: 5g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make the fry bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

What other beans can I use?
Black beans or pinto beans work well as substitutes.

Can I bake the bread instead of frying?
While traditional fry bread is fried, you can bake it at 400°F until golden, though the texture will differ.

Conclusion

Bring the joy of the fair to your table with these delightful Indian Tacos. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, they are sure to be a hit. I can’t wait to hear about your experiences, so please share your taco tales in the comments below!