When I first tasted Navajo Tacos at a friend’s family gathering, I was instantly captivated. The crispy, golden Indian Fry Bread cradling a savory filling of perfectly seasoned ground beef and an array of fresh toppings left my taste buds singing. I knew I’d found a meal that was not only delicious but incredibly versatile—perfect for everyone from busy weeknight dinners to spirited Taco Tuesdays.
What’s more? These tacos provide a fun and interactive experience that transforms any meal into a celebration! You can customize each taco to your liking, whether you’re in the mood for chicken, want to whip up a vegetarian delight, or even spice things up with jalapeños. Join me on this culinary journey, and let’s bring the delightful flavors of Navajo Tacos to your home. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
Why Are Navajo Tacos So Special?
Uniqueness: Navajo Tacos combine crispy Indian Fry Bread with custom fillings, offering a delightful twist on traditional tacos.
Easy Preparation: Whipping up these tacos is a breeze, perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.
Flavor Explosion: Savory meats and fresh toppings blend beautifully, creating a mouthwatering meal that satisfies.
Customizable Creations: From spicy shrimp to hearty vegetarian options, everyone can enjoy their favorite flavors.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for family dinners or gatherings, these tacos are always a hit that sparks joy and conversation.
Navajo Tacos Ingredients
For the Fry Bread
- Warm Water – Activates yeast; make sure it’s tepid, not hot.
- Active Dry Yeast – Provides leavening for the fry bread; can be substituted with instant yeast.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the fry bread; try whole wheat or gluten-free flour for alternatives.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; don’t skip this essential ingredient.
- Baking Powder – Adds fluffiness to the fry bread, ensuring a soft bite.
- Sugar – Aids browning and adds slight sweetness; can be replaced with honey for a natural twist.
- Vegetable Oil (for dough) – Keeps the dough moist; any neutral oil works well.
For Frying
- Vegetable Oil (for frying) – Needed for that perfect golden and crispy texture; opt for oils with high smoke points like canola.
For the Filling
- Ground Beef or Turkey – Main protein source; easily swap for shredded chicken, black beans, or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Onion (finely chopped) – Adds flavor and sweetness; shallots work as great alternatives.
- Taco Seasoning – Adds savory notes to the meat; you can use store-bought or create your own blend.
- Refried Beans – Adds creaminess and richness; hummus can be a delicious substitute for a different flair.
For Assembly
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Provides a creamy finish; consider using vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Shredded Lettuce – Brings freshness and crunch; feel free to switch with other greens like spinach.
- Diced Tomato – Adds juiciness and a tangy kick; pico de gallo can enhance the flavor even more.
- Sour Cream – Offers creaminess and tang; Greek yogurt serves as a healthier alternative.
- Salsa (optional) – Adds another layer of flavor; customize it with your preferred spice levels.
These Navajo Tacos promise a delightful culinary experience that you can make your own at home!
How to Make Navajo Tacos
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Activate Yeast: Combine warm water and active dry yeast in a bowl. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it’s foamy and bubbly—this ensures your fry bread will rise nicely.
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Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar. Add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil, then knead until the dough is smooth and slightly sticky, about 5-7 minutes.
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Rise Dough: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
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Cook Filling: In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onion until translucent, then add the ground beef (or turkey) and taco seasoning, cooking until browned through.
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Shape Fry Bread: After the dough has risen, divide it into 6-8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten into discs, about ½ inch thick.
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Fry Bread: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Fry each disc for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
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Assemble Tacos: Spread a layer of refried beans on each fry bread, then add the seasoned meat, shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and any other toppings you desire.
Optional: Top with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Navajo Tacos
Fridge: Store leftover Navajo Tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave, but enjoy the fry bread fresh for the best texture.
Freezer: You can freeze unassembled fry bread and taco filling separately. Wrap fry bread tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil; it lasts up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Fry Bread: For a delightful crispiness, reheat frozen fry bread directly in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed through.
Filling Storage: Store cooked taco filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, allowing for quick assembly of your Navajo Tacos when cravings strike.
Expert Tips for Navajo Tacos
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Perfect Fry Oil: Use medium-high heat for frying; too hot will burn the bread, while too cold leads to greasy dough.
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Dough Consistency: The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable; if too dry, add a touch of warm water to adjust.
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Even Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the pan during frying to ensure each piece of fry bread cooks evenly and achieves that golden crisp.
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Creative Fillings: Don’t hesitate to experiment with fillings; try vegetarian beans or spiced chicken to customize your Navajo Tacos!
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Flavor Enhancements: Use fresh herbs like cilantro or spices like smoked paprika to elevate the flavor profile of your taco filling.
What to Serve with Navajo Tacos with Indian Fry Bread?
To round out your meal and enhance the joyful experience of DIY tacos, consider these delightful pairings that will tantalize your taste buds.
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Crispy Mexican Street Corn:
With its smoky and cheesy flavors, this dish adds a vibrant side that complements the savory tacos perfectly. -
Zesty Guacamole:
Creamy, rich, and bursting with fresh avocado goodness, guacamole brings a cooling element that balances the spices of the tacos beautifully. -
Black Bean Salad:
This refreshing salad packed with protein and colorful veggies adds texture and a burst of flavor, making it a fulfilling side. -
Chips and Salsa:
A crunchy classic! Perfect for dipping, this combination brings layers of flavor and keeps your guests snacking while they build their tacos. -
Spicy Pineapple Salsa:
Sweet and spicy, this fruity topper can elevate any taco, adding a bright contrast that keeps every bite exciting. -
Creamy Coleslaw:
The crisp, crunchy texture and tangy dressing provide a wonderful contrast to the warm, soft fry bread, enriching the overall meal experience. -
Margaritas or Horchata:
Sip on these delightful beverages that are sure to make any gathering feel festive and engaging, enhancing the flavors of your meal. -
Churros with Chocolate Sauce:
For dessert, these warm, dusted delights offer a sweet finale that complements the heartiness of the Navajo Tacos. -
Coconut Rice:
This subtly sweet and creamy side dish harmonizes beautifully with the savory tacos, enhancing your culinary adventure.
Navajo Tacos Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to mix and match ingredients to make these tacos truly your own! Each twist adds its own unique flavor.
- Chicken: Swap the ground beef for grilled or shredded chicken for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian: Replace meat with black beans, lentils, or a colorful mix of sautéed vegetables to delight veggie lovers.
- Spicy: Elevate the temperature by mixing in sliced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce for a kick that will ignite your taste buds.
- Breakfast: Start your day off right with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and melted cheese piled high on fry bread.
- Seafood: Change it up with flaky fish or shrimp, seasoned with lime and cilantro for a fresh, ocean-inspired meal.
- BBQ Twist: Use pulled BBQ chicken or pork instead of traditional taco filling, topped with coleslaw for a delightful crunch.
- Sweet Potato: For a hearty vegetarian option, roasted sweet potato cubes mixed with black beans add a sweet and earthy flavor pair.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend specially designed for baking to ensure everyone can enjoy this meal.
Experimenting with these variations creates endless culinary possibilities that suit any craving!
Make Ahead Options
These Navajo Tacos with Indian Fry Bread are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the fry bread dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its quality. Moreover, you can also cook and refrigerate the seasoned beef filling for up to 3 days; warm it gently on the stovetop before assembling. When you’re ready to serve, fry the dough fresh to ensure it’s crispy and golden, then layer in the beans, meat, cheese, and toppings for a delightful meal that tastes just as delicious as if it were made from scratch on the spot!
Navajo Tacos with Indian Fry Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I select the perfect ingredients for the fry bread?
Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, use warm—not hot—water to help activate the yeast effectively. Look for active dry yeast that’s fresh, as older yeast can hinder your bread from rising. For the flour, a good all-purpose variety will yield the best structure, but feel free to experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free options for different flavors and textures.
What is the best way to store leftover Navajo Tacos?
Very! After enjoying your delicious Navajo Tacos, store any leftovers in an airtight container. The fry bread can be kept fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick snack, but keep in mind the fry bread is best enjoyed immediately after frying for that lovely crispiness!
Can I freeze the fry bread and taco filling?
Certainly! To freeze, start by wrapping the unassembled fry bread tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn; it will keep well for up to 2 months. For the taco filling, simply place it in an airtight container and freeze it as well. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the fry bread in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, and warm the filling in a microwave or pot until heated through.
What should I do if my fry bread doesn’t turn out crispy?
No worries! If your fry bread ends up soggy, it might be due to the oil temperature during frying. Make sure your oil is medium-high—ideally around 350°F (175°C)—to achieve that beautiful golden crust. If it’s too low, the bread can absorb too much oil. If necessary, adjust the heat and let the oil come back up to temperature before frying the next batch.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! These Navajo Tacos can easily be customized for different dietary needs. If you’re cooking for someone with a gluten allergy, use gluten-free flour and check your taco seasoning for hidden gluten. For a dairy-free version, swap regular cheese with vegan alternatives and use dairy-free yogurt instead of sour cream. Always check for allergies, especially with spices and toppings!
How long can I store the taco filling?
Yes! The cooked taco filling can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. This makes it a breeze to whip up a quick meal later on. Just reheat it in a pan or microwave, and assemble your tacos fresh with warm fry bread!
Navajo Tacos with Indian Fry Bread – Customize Your Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Activate Yeast: Combine warm water and active dry yeast in a bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar. Add yeast mixture and oil, then knead until smooth and slightly sticky (about 5-7 minutes).
- Rise Dough: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm area for about 1 hour.
- Cook Filling: Heat oil in a skillet, sauté onion until translucent, then add ground meat and taco seasoning, cooking until browned.
- Shape Fry Bread: After rising, divide dough into 6-8 portions, roll into balls, and flatten into discs (about ½ inch thick).
- Fry Bread: In a deep pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Fry discs for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Assemble Tacos: Spread refried beans on each fry bread, then add meat, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and desired toppings.