Traditional Fry Bread Recipe With Yeast
Incorporating yeast into traditional fry bread adds a delightful depth of flavor and a tender, airy texture that’s perfect for a variety of toppings. This fry bread recipe takes a bit more time due to the rising process but yields a wonderfully light and fluffy bread that’s well worth the effort.
- 1 package active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (plus more for frying)
- 1 cup warm water
- Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in 1/4 cup of warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the yeast mixture, warm milk, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients with a wooden spoon, adding additional warm water as needed to form a soft dough.
- Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare the Oil
In a large, deep skillet or saucepan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Shape the Dough
Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Divide it into 8 equal pieces. On a lightly floured surface, roll each piece into a ball and then flatten it into a 6-inch circle. For even cooking, you can poke a small hole in the center of each piece.
- Fry the Bread
Carefully place one piece of dough into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown on one side, about 1-2 minutes, then flip and fry the other side for another 1-2 minutes. Use tongs to remove the fry bread from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with the remaining pieces of dough, making sure the oil stays at the correct temperature.
- Serve
Now the fry bread recipe comes to an end, once fried serve them warm. Top with seasoned ground beef, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream for Indian tacos, or enjoy with honey, butter, or powdered sugar for a sweet treat.
- Make sure your oil is at the right temperature. If it’s too hot, the bread will brown too quickly and remain doughy inside; too cool, and the bread will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Allowing the dough to rise properly is key to achieving a fluffy texture. If you’re in a rush, you can speed up the rising process by placing the dough in a slightly warm oven (about 100°F).
- This fry bread is versatile and can be topped with anything you like, from savory taco toppings to sweet honey and cinnamon.
Have Fun Baking!