Navajo tacos are a beloved Southwestern dish that brings together crispy, fluffy fry bread topped with savory taco fillings and fresh toppings. If you’ve ever wondered how to make Navajo tacos at home, you’re in for a treat! This article will walk you through the simple steps to create this flavorful meal that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
What Are Navajo Tacos?
Navajo tacos are not your typical tacos wrapped in tortillas. Instead, they start with Indian fry bread, a soft and pillowy bread that’s fried until golden and crispy on the outside. This bread acts as a perfect base for a hearty topping of seasoned ground beef, beans, and all your favorite taco fixings like cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Fry Bread:
– All-purpose flour
– Baking powder
– Salt
– Milk
– Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Taco Topping:
– Ground beef (lean is best)
– Onion and garlic (for flavor)
– Taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
– Beans (kidney, black, or pinto)
– Diced tomatoes or salsa
– Optional diced green chilis or bell peppers
– Olive oil or vegetable oil (for cooking)
Toppings:
– Shredded lettuce
– Cheddar cheese
– Sour cream
– Sliced olives
– Avocado or guacamole
– Tomatoes
– Salsa or pico de gallo
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Navajo Tacos
1. Make the Fry Bread
Start by mixing the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add milk and mix until you form a soft dough. Divide the dough into small balls and flatten each one to about 1/4 inch thick.
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each piece of dough until it’s golden brown on both sides, about 30 seconds to 1 minute per side. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. The result is a warm, crispy, and fluffy base ready for toppings.
2. Prepare the Taco Meat
In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté diced onions and garlic until soft. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in taco seasoning, beans, diced tomatoes, and optional green chilis or bell peppers. Add a splash of water if needed and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to blend the flavors. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble Your Navajo Tacos
Place a piece of fry bread on a plate. Spoon a generous amount of the seasoned meat and bean mixture on top. Then pile on your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, sour cream, olives, and guacamole for a flavor-packed bite.
Tips for Perfect Navajo Tacos
– Don’t overwork the dough for fry bread; keep it soft for the best texture.
– Use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.
– Simmer the meat mixture long enough to let the spices meld but avoid drying it out.
– Fry bread is best served fresh and warm; reheat gently if needed.
– Feel free to customize toppings to your taste—Navajo tacos are versatile!
Why Navajo Tacos Are So Special
Navajo tacos are more than just a meal; they are a cultural staple that brings people together. The fry bread base is a traditional Native American recipe that has been passed down through generations. Its unique texture and flavor make it stand out from regular tacos, offering a comforting and hearty experience that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Quick Navajo Taco Variations
– Vegetarian version: Skip the meat and use a mix of beans, diced tomatoes, and sautéed veggies.
– Spicy twist: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat mixture.
– Cheesy delight: Mix shredded cheese into the meat filling while it simmers for extra gooeyness.
– Sweet fry bread: Serve fry bread with honey or powdered sugar for a dessert twist.
Navajo tacos are a fun and tasty way to enjoy a piece of Native American culinary tradition. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can bring this flavorful dish to your table in under an hour.
Enjoy making and sharing these delicious Navajo tacos with your loved ones!
Navajo tacos combine crispy fry bread with savory toppings for a uniquely delicious meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe and savor a true Southwestern classic!