Navajo Bread (Jamie Oliver's recipe)

Navajo Bread – A Delicacy from American Cuisine

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Discover the magic of Navajo Bread, a simple and quick recipe that will transport you straight to the heart of American culinary traditions. This bread, also known as 'frybread', is perfect to be served alongside various dishes or as a base for delicious tacos. In this guide, I will teach you step by step how to achieve a fluffy and flavorful bread using accessible ingredients and simple techniques.

Ingredients:
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour (sifted)
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 tablespoon of dried herbs (oregano, basil, or thyme, depending on preference)
- 1/2 cup of warm water
- Oil for frying (sunflower or olive oil, depending on taste)

Step 1: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, combine the sifted flour, salt, baking powder, and dried herbs. Mix these ingredients with a fork, making sure they are evenly distributed. This step is essential for obtaining a flavorful bread with a pleasant texture. If you desire a spicier version, you can also add a pinch of chili powder or paprika.

Step 2: Forming the dough
Gradually add the warm water to the flour mixture and start mixing with the fork. When the dough begins to come together, gently knead it with your hands on a floured surface. Knead for about 2-3 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If it is too sticky, you can add a little extra flour.

Step 3: Heating the oil
In a deep skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. It is important that the oil is hot enough to achieve a golden and crispy crust on the outside. You can check the oil temperature by introducing a small cube of dough; if it starts to sizzle and rise to the surface, the oil is ready.

Step 4: Frying the bread
Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each piece of dough into a round shape, about 1 cm thick. Carefully place each piece of dough into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Use a spatula to turn the bread carefully, avoiding breaking it.

Step 5: Serving
Once fried, remove the bread onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Navajo Bread is delicious served warm. You can accompany it with various toppings, such as salsa, guacamole, or even jams for a unique twist. A serving suggestion would be to use it as a base for tacos, adding your favorite meats, vegetables, and sauces.

Variations:
To customize this recipe, you can experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat or corn flour, to achieve a distinct flavor. You can also add grated cheese to the dough for a creamy touch, or try various combinations of herbs and spices to find the perfect mix that suits your taste.

In conclusion, Navajo Bread is a versatile and easy-to-make dish that blends tradition with innovation. This quick recipe will bring you joy and satisfaction, no matter the occasion. Savor every bite and enjoy the culinary experience!

 Ingredients: For 10 small breads: 600 g white flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 2 tablespoons of baking powder, a mix of dried parsley, dried thyme, fennel seeds - 1 teaspoon (I don't have fennel seeds, I used dried dill), 6 tablespoons of olive oil, approximately 150 ml of warm water.