Navajo Tacos
Pillowy, golden fry bread serves as the delicious base for a hearty topping of seasoned ground beef and beans, finished with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese. A beloved Southwestern classic.
For 6 servings
4 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Fry Bread Dough
- b.In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- c.Gradually pour in the warm milk, mixing with a fork or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
- d.Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 1-2 minutes, just until it comes together into a smooth ball. Do not overwork the dough.
- e.Place the dough back in the bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest for at least 20 minutes.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook the Taco Meat Topping
- b.While the dough rests, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess grease.
- c.Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- d.Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, the remaining 1 teaspoon of salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- e.Add the rinsed kidney beans, tomato sauce, and water. Stir to combine, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Fry the Bread
- b.In a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet, heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 365°F (185°C).
- c.Divide the rested dough into 6 equal portions. On a floured surface, use your hands or a rolling pin to stretch each portion into a 6-7 inch circle, about 1/4-inch thick.
- d.Carefully place one piece of dough into the hot oil. It should puff up quickly. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Use tongs to flip.
- e.Remove the fry bread from the oil and place it on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain. Repeat with the remaining dough portions.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Assemble and Serve
- b.Place a piece of warm fry bread on each plate.
- c.Spoon a generous amount of the beef and bean mixture over the center of the bread.
- d.Garnish with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
- e.Serve immediately while the fry bread is warm and crispy.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the fluffiest fry bread, ensure your baking powder is fresh. Warm milk (or water) helps activate it, but don't use hot liquid as it can kill the leavening.
- 2The key to tender fry bread is minimal handling. Knead the dough just enough to bring it together; overworking it will result in tough bread.
- 3Maintain a consistent oil temperature. Frying one piece at a time prevents the oil from cooling down, ensuring each piece is perfectly cooked and not greasy.
- 4Test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of dough into it. If it sizzles and floats to the top immediately, the oil is hot enough.
- 5Feel free to customize toppings with your favorites like salsa, guacamole, sliced black olives, or pickled jalapeños.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian
Replace the ground beef with two cans of pinto or black beans (or a mix), or use a plant-based ground meat substitute. Sauté with the onions and spices as directed.
SpicySpicy
Add 1-2 finely chopped jalapeños along with the onion, or stir in 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper with the other spices for extra heat.
Different ProteinDifferent Protein
Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, shredded chicken, or pulled pork (carnitas) for a different flavor profile.
Sweet TreatSweet Treat
For a dessert, serve the plain, freshly fried bread drizzled with honey, sprinkled with powdered sugar and cinnamon, or with a side of fruit jam.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
The combination of ground beef and kidney beans provides a substantial amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Source of Dietary Fiber
Kidney beans and fresh vegetable toppings like lettuce and tomatoes contribute dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain bowel health, and promotes a feeling of fullness.
Provides Key Minerals
Ground beef is an excellent source of iron, crucial for preventing anemia and transporting oxygen in the blood, as well as zinc, which supports a healthy immune system.
Frequently asked questions
Fry bread is a flat dough bread, fried or deep-fried in oil, shortening, or lard. It is a significant part of Native American cuisine, particularly in the Southwestern United States, and its creation is linked to the period when Native Americans were relocated and given government rations like flour, sugar, and lard.