Navajo Tacos are a delightful, hearty dish that brings a taste of tradition right to your dining table. Originating from Native American cuisine, these tacos feature a delicious fry bread base topped with a variety of ingredients, making them not just filling but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re throwing a casual family gathering or just want to whip up something comforting for dinner, Navajo Tacos are a fantastic choice. They’re a true crowd-pleaser that combines flavors and textures in a way that’s sure to please everyone.
Why you’ll love this dish
What sets Navajo Tacos apart from your typical taco night? Well, for starters, the fry bread is a game changer. It’s crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and serves as the perfect base for delectable toppings like chili beans, seasoned meat, and fresh veggies. This dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also keeps everyone at the table satisfied. Plus, it’s a fun recipe that invites creativity—everyone can customize their toppings!
"I made these for a gathering and they were a huge hit! The kids loved the fry bread, and my friends couldn’t get enough of the toppings. I’ll definitely make them again!" – Happy Home Chef
How this recipe comes together
Creating Navajo Tacos might seem a bit daunting initially, but it’s a straightforward process that anyone can master. You’ll start by whipping up the fry bread dough and letting it rest for a bit before frying it to golden perfection. Then, the real fun begins as you layer on your favorite toppings. The result is a mouthwatering, satisfying dish that pays homage to traditional Native American cuisine while fitting perfectly into modern family meals.
Gather these items
To make your delicious Navajo Tacos, you will need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 Tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup hot water
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Toppings: chili beans, seasoned taco meat, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocados, sliced olives, grated cheese, sour cream, and salsa
Feel free to mix and match the toppings based on your preferences or what you have on hand—there’s no wrong way to enjoy these tacos!
Directions to follow
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well blended.
- Gradually pour in the hot water and mix with your hands until a slightly sticky dough forms; be cautious not to overwork it.
- Cover the dough and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat to around 350°F.
- Pinch off golf-ball-sized pieces of dough and flatten them into 6–7 inch circles.
- Fry in batches until puffed and golden brown—about 20 seconds on one side.
- Drain on paper towels and keep warm in a low oven.
- Top each piece of fry bread with chili beans and taco meat, adding your desired toppings. Serve immediately for the best experience.
How to plate and pair
For a stunning presentation, stack your fry bread in the center of the plate and generously spoon on chili beans and taco meat. Then, let each guest customize their own plate with toppings. Pair these tacos with a side of corn salad or guacamole for a fresh burst of flavor. They also pair beautifully with a light beverage like lemonade or a classic margarita.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftover fry bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about 1-2 days. The best way to reheat it is to place it in a hot skillet for a few seconds on each side, helping to restore some of its original crispiness. If you’ve made extra toppings, they can be refrigerated and enjoyed for up to three days. Just remember to store the fry bread and toppings separately.
Helpful cooking tips
- For an extra fluffy fry bread, allow the dough to rest a bit longer after kneading.
- If you want to try something different, use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends for healthier or dietary-friendly options.
- A temperature check is crucial when frying—too low, and they absorb too much oil; too high, and they’ll burn.
Creative twists
Don’t be afraid to explore different flavor profiles! You can turn your Navajo Tacos into a breakfast delight by using scrambled eggs, cheese, and avocado. Or try adding spicy sautéed veggies for a vegetarian twist. You could even present a dessert version topped with cinnamon sugar and fresh fruit!
Common questions
How long does this dish take to prepare?
The total time for preparing and cooking Navajo Tacos is about 30-40 minutes, making it a great choice for a weeknight meal.
Can I use pre-made fry bread?
Absolutely! While making your own fry bread is a fun and rewarding experience, you can find many excellent pre-made options at grocery stores or even local markets.
What other toppings can I use?
Get creative! Consider adding ingredients like pulled pork, jalapeños, or pineapple salsa to tailor the dish to your taste.
Ingredients
For the Fry Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 Tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup hot water
- to taste vegetable oil for frying Use enough to cover the base of the skillet
Toppings
- chili beans Can use canned or homemade
- seasoned taco meat Use ground beef, turkey, or any preferred meat
- shredded lettuce
- diced tomatoes
- sliced avocados
- sliced olives
- grated cheese Cheddar or your choice
- sour cream
- salsa
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well blended.
- Gradually pour in the hot water and mix with your hands until a slightly sticky dough forms; be cautious not to overwork it.
- Cover the dough and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
Cooking
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat to around 350°F.
- Pinch off golf-ball-sized pieces of dough and flatten them into 6–7 inch circles.
- Fry in batches until puffed and golden brown—about 20 seconds on one side.
- Drain on paper towels and keep warm in a low oven.
- Top each piece of fry bread with chili beans and taco meat, adding your desired toppings. Serve immediately for the best experience.