Authentic Navajo
anyone know how to make frybread?
My grandmother used to make me frybread when I visited her on the reservation in New Mexico. Ever since I moved to kentucky I haven't tasted it since. I was wondering if any people who know how to make frybread could give me the recipe and directions so that I can remember my grandmother and how wonderful it was to be with her.
( an authentic navajo recipe is preferred since that was what my grandmother was)
Navajo Fry Bread Recipe
•3 cups all-purpose flour
•1 tablespoon baking powder
•1 teaspoon salt
•1 tablespoon shortening
•1 1/4 cup warm water
•Oil for frying
•Choice of toppings
1.In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder and salt. Mix in the shortening until the mixture has a very fine texture, like cornmeal or breadcrumbs. This is best done using a pastry cutter, two forks, or by rubbing the flour and shortening mixture between your fingers until the desired texture is achieved.
2.Add all of the water at once and mix in with a fork until the dough is uniformly mixed and begins to come together. It may not be completely smooth, and all of the flour may not have been worked in, this is ok.
3.Flour a work surface for kneading. Turn the dough out onto the floured surface and gently knead a couple of times until the dough is smooth. Do not over work the dough.
4.Divide the dough into 4 or 6 balls, depending on the desired size of your fry bread. Cover the dough balls loosely and allow to rest for 10 minutes.
5.Heat the oil over medium high heat. When the oil is hot enough, a small piece of dough dropped in should begin to rise to the surface immediately and begin to lightly brown within about a minute. Do not allow the oil to smoke.
6.Roll or pat each dough ball into a thin circle. Poke a hole in the center with your finger or the handle of a wooden spoon. Gently lay the circle of dough into the oil, being careful not to splash the hot oil. When the bread browns on the bottom, turn it and fry to brown the other side. Watch the bread carefully, as this process only takes 1 – 2 minutes per side.
7.Fry the bread rounds, one at a time, in the hot oil. When each fry bread is done, remove to a platter covered with paper towels to drain.
8.Serve warm with your choice of topping or as an accompaniment to soup or stew.