Traditional Indian Fry Bread: Crispy Pillsows of Joy at Home Recipe

Introduction

Traditional Indian Fry Bread is a delightful treat known for its crispy exterior and soft, pillowy interior. This simple yet satisfying bread can be enjoyed plain or topped with sweet or savory ingredients. Perfect for a cozy snack or a fun meal at home.

Ingredients

• 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute)
• 1.5 teaspoons Baking Powder (Vital leavening agent)
• 0.25 teaspoons Salt (Enhances flavor)
• 0.5 cup Milk (Dairy-free milk can be used for a lactose-free option)
• 1 cup Vegetable Oil (Shortening can work as an alternative)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
2. Step 2: Pour in 0.5 cup of milk and 2 tablespoons of additional milk, mixing until a soft, smooth dough forms.
3. Step 3: Lightly knead the dough on a floured surface about four to five times, then shape it into a rectangle.
4. Step 4: Optionally, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
5. Step 5: Cut the dough into four equal sections, roll each into a ball, and flatten into discs about 0.25 inch thick. Poke a hole in the center of each disc.
6. Step 6: Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
7. Step 7: Fry each disc for 3 to 4 minutes on both sides until golden brown and crispy.
8. Step 8: Transfer the fried bread to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Try using dairy-free milk to make the recipe suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or sugar to the dough for a subtly sweet variation.
• Serve with honey, powdered sugar, or savory toppings like beans and cheese for different flavor experiences.

Storage

Store any leftover fry bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven to help restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make the bread soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerating the dough for up to 24 hours helps improve handling and flavor. Just bring it back to room temperature before frying.

What oil is best for frying fry bread?

Vegetable oil is ideal due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor, but you can also use canola or peanut oil as alternatives.

Traditional Indian Fry Bread: Crispy Pillsows of Joy at Home Recipe

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5 from 55 reviews

Traditional Indian Fry Bread is a delightful recipe for soft, crispy golden pillows that are perfect as a snack or accompaniment to meals. Made with simple pantry ingredients and fried to perfection in vegetable oil, this fry bread boasts a tender inside and a crispy exterior—a beloved treat that brings warmth and nostalgia to your table.

• Author: reem
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Indian

Ingredients

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Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute)
• 1.5 teaspoons Baking Powder
• 0.25 teaspoons Salt

Wet Ingredients

• 0.5 cup Milk (Dairy-free milk can be used for a lactose-free option)
• 2 tablespoons Milk (additional for mixing)

For Frying

• 1 cup Vegetable Oil (Shortening can work as an alternative)

Instructions

1. Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly distributed.
2. Add wet ingredients: Pour in 0.5 cup milk along with 2 tablespoons more milk, then mix until the dough forms a soft, smooth ball.
3. Knead the dough: Lightly knead the dough on a floured surface about four to five times to bring it together and improve texture.
4. Refrigerate (optional): Wrap the dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle and roll out.
5. Shape the bread: Divide the dough into four equal sections, roll each into a ball, and flatten into discs approximately 0.25 inches thick. Poke a hole in the center of each disc to allow even frying.
6. Heat oil: Pour 1 inch of vegetable oil into a skillet and heat over medium-high until the temperature reaches 350°F (175°C).
7. Fry the discs: Carefully fry each dough disc for 3-4 minutes on each side until they puff up and turn a golden brown color. Use tongs to flip them gently.
8. Drain excess oil: Transfer the fried bread onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil before serving.

Notes

• For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Use dairy-free milk to make this recipe lactose-free.
• Ensure the oil temperature is properly maintained around 350°F for best frying results.
• The hole in the center of each disc helps the bread cook evenly and prevents bubbling.
• Serve warm with honey, jam, or savory toppings like beans or cheese for a delicious treat.

Keywords: Indian fry bread, traditional fry bread recipe, crispy fried bread, easy Indian snack, homemade fry bread