How to Make Delicious Navajo Tacos with Homemade Fry Bread

There’s something truly special about a meal that brings people together—and few dishes do that better than Navajo tacos!

Also known as Indian tacos, this hearty and flavorful meal combines a golden, crispy piece of fry bread with savory taco toppings. It’s a beloved comfort food across many Native American communities, especially the Navajo Nation, and it’s easy to see why: it’s satisfying, simple to make, and absolutely delicious!

🍞 What Is Navajo Fry Bread?

Fry bread is a deep-fried dough that puffs up into a crispy, chewy base perfect for topping with all your taco favorites. It was created out of resilience—born during a time when Native families had to make do with government-issued rations like flour, salt, and lard. Today, it’s both a cultural symbol and a crowd-pleasing staple.

🧑‍🍳 How to Make Navajo Fry Bread

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Slowly add warm water and stir until a soft dough forms. Knead for a few minutes until smooth.
3. Cover the bowl and let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into 6–8 equal pieces and shape each into a ball. Flatten into disks about 6–7 inches wide.
5. Heat 1–2 inches of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
6. Fry each piece of dough until golden brown and puffed, about 1–2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

🌮 Navajo Taco Toppings

Now comes the fun part—toppings! Traditional Navajo tacos are topped with:

• Seasoned ground beef or bison
• Pinto or black beans
• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped onions
• Sour cream
• Salsa or green chile

You can also get creative with toppings—some people add avocado, corn, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for a little kick!

💡 Tips for the Best Navajo Tacos

Here are a few tips from the experts to ensure you make the best-tasting Navajo tacos!

• Keep the oil hot enough (about 375°F) to avoid soggy bread.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan—fry one or two at a time.
• Make it vegetarian by using spiced beans and skipping the meat.
• For a sweet twist, serve leftover fry bread with honey and powdered sugar!

🌾 A Dish with History

Navajo tacos are more than a delicious meal—they’re a reflection of survival, adaptation, and cultural pride. Whether you’re making them for the first time or enjoying a family tradition, each bite carries a rich story.

Try making Navajo tacos at home and enjoy a meal that’s as meaningful as it is mouthwatering! 🍽️