Indian Fry Bread Tacos (Print Format)

Golden crispy fry bread layered with seasoned beef, fresh toppings, and melted cheese for a flavorful meal.

# Ingredients:

→ Fry Bread

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
03 - 1 tablespoon baking powder
04 - 1 cup warm water
05 - Vegetable oil for frying

→ Beef Topping

06 - 1 pound lean ground beef
07 - 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
08 - 1/4 cup warm water

→ Pinto Beans (Optional)

09 - 2 cans (15 oz each) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
10 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
11 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
12 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
13 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
14 - 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

→ Toppings

15 - Crisp lettuce, chopped
16 - Red tomatoes, diced
17 - Shredded cheddar cheese
18 - Sour cream
19 - Fresh cilantro, finely chopped

# Steps:

01 - In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder. Slowly mix in warm water until soft dough forms. Cover with a clean towel and let rest for 10 minutes.
02 - Brown ground beef in a medium skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once cooked through, drain excess fat. Stir in taco seasoning and warm water, simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
03 - Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add drained beans, cumin, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Cook on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
04 - Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F. Divide rested dough into 4 equal portions and flatten each to approximately 1/2 inch thickness. Fry each piece 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
05 - Place warm fry bread on plates. Top with chopped lettuce, seasoned beef, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
06 - Serve immediately while fry bread is warm and crispy. Enjoy eating either with a fork or by hand for a traditional experience.

# Tips:

01 - Do not overwork the dough; mixing gently and resting yields fluffier fry bread.
02 - Use a cooking thermometer to maintain oil temperature at 350°F for optimal frying.
03 - Drain fried bread on paper towels to absorb excess oil and retain crispiness.
04 - Ensure beef and beans are hot before assembling to keep toppings warm.
05 - Consider setting up a build-your-own taco bar for personalized servings.