Navajo Taco Recipe
Navajo tacos are a delicious twist on traditional tacos, featuring a fluffy fry bread base topped with seasoned ground beef and a variety of fresh toppings. This recipe is simple to follow, making it perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. With just a few key ingredients and a bit of time, you can create an unforgettable meal that brings everyone together around the table. Let’s dive into the world of Navajo tacos!
Why It Works Every Time
The combination of savory ground beef, zesty taco seasoning, and the soft, warm fry bread creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The fry bread is crispy on the outside yet tender on the inside, providing the perfect canvas for your favorite toppings. This recipe is flexible and can be adapted to suit your taste, making it a winner for any occasion.
The Ingredient Lineup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the beef and garlic.
- 1 pound lean ground beef (93/7) – The heart of your taco filling.
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic – Adds depth of flavor.
- 1 (1-ounce) packet taco seasoning – A quick and easy way to season the beef.
- 1/2 cup mild picante sauce or salsa – For a touch of spice and moisture.
- 1 (16-ounce) can chili beans, undrained – Adds protein and texture.
- Toppings as desired – Such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and jalapeños.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – For flavor in the fry bread.
- 2-1/3 cups all-purpose flour – The base for your fry bread.
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar – Just a hint of sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the fry bread rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast – For extra fluffiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended) – Provides moisture for the dough.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil plus more for frying – Used for cooking the fry bread.
Equipment at a Glance
- Large skillet – For cooking the beef mixture.
- Mixing bowls – For combining the dough ingredients.
- Rolling pin – To roll out the fry bread dough.
- Deep skillet or frying pan – For frying the dough.
- Slotted spoon – To remove the fry bread from the oil.
From Start to Finish: Navajo Taco Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the lean ground beef and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Season the Beef
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef, then pour in the mild picante sauce and the undrained chili beans. Stir to combine and let everything simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Fry Bread Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, instant yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the milk and melted butter. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently for about 1-2 minutes until smooth. Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a 6-inch circle, about 1/4 inch thick.
Step 5: Fry the Bread
In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place one piece of rolled dough into the oil. Fry until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fry bread and drain it on paper towels. Repeat with the remaining dough.
Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
To assemble your Navajo tacos, place a piece of fry bread on a plate. Top generously with the beef mixture, then add your favorite toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and jalapeños. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps
- Ground beef: Substitute with lentils, black beans, or a meat alternative like tempeh or textured vegetable protein (TVP).
- Milk: Use almond milk, soy milk, or any plant-based milk for the fry bread.
- Butter: Replace with vegan butter or coconut oil.
- Cheese: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit entirely.
What I Learned Testing
- The fry bread turns out best when the oil is hot enough to fry quickly without absorbing too much oil.
- Letting the beef mixture simmer allows the flavors to deepen, creating a more robust filling.
- Feel free to experiment with toppings; the sky’s the limit!
- Using whole milk in the dough gives the fry bread a richer flavor and better texture.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
Leftover beef filling can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The fry bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored at room temperature for a day. To reheat, warm in a dry skillet over medium heat or in an oven set to 350°F until warmed through. If freezing, wrap the fry bread tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a skillet or oven.
Navajo Taco Recipe Q&A
Can I make the fry bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the fry bread in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day, or freeze it for longer storage. Just reheat before serving.
What can I serve with Navajo tacos?
Navajo tacos pair well with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve a variety of salsas and dips for added flavor.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and will work perfectly in this Navajo taco recipe. Just be sure to season it well for the best flavor.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in the fry bread recipe. Just be mindful of the ratios, as gluten-free flours may require adjustments in liquid.
The Takeaway
Navajo tacos are a delightful and satisfying meal that can be customized to suit any palate. With this simple recipe, you can bring the flavors of the Southwest into your kitchen, creating a dish that is both comforting and delicious. Whether you’re enjoying them with family, hosting a party, or simply treating yourself to a hearty meal, these Navajo tacos are sure to impress. Happy cooking!
Navajo Taco Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and garlic. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning over the cooked beef, add picante sauce and chili beans. Stir to combine and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, yeast, and salt. In another bowl, mix milk and melted butter. Gradually add wet to dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead gently for 1-2 minutes. Divide into 6 portions and roll each into a 6-inch circle.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry each piece of dough until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
- Assemble tacos by placing fry bread on a plate, topping with beef mixture and desired toppings. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Experiment with toppings like avocado or different cheeses for variety.
- Fry bread can be made ahead and reheated for convenience.
- Leftover beef filling can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
