Indian Frybread is a versatile and delicious flatbread that’s crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside. It’s perfect for pairing with savory dishes like Chole (spicy chickpea curry) or enjoyed as a sweet treat with honey or powdered sugar. This recipe is simple, uses pantry staples, and yields golden, puffy frybread that’s sure to impress. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour (maida) 🍚
1/2 teaspoon baking powder 🥄
1/4 teaspoon baking soda 🥄
2 tablespoons yogurt 🥛
1 tablespoon sugar 🍚
1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂
Water, as needed 💧
Oil, for frying 🛢️
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix the dry ingredients well.
Add the 2 tablespoons of yogurt to the dry ingredients.
Gradually add water, a little at a time, and knead the dough until it comes together. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, working it with your hands until it becomes smooth, elastic, and easy to handle.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rest
Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for 1 hour. This allows the gluten to relax and the dough to rise slightly, resulting in softer frybread.
Step 3: Divide and Shape the Dough
After the dough has rested, divide it into equal-sized balls, roughly the size of a golf ball.
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out each ball into a thin, round disc (about 1/8 inch thick). Alternatively, you can use your hands to gently stretch and shape the dough into rounds.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a deep frying pan or kadhai, heat enough oil for frying over medium heat. The oil should be about 1-2 inches deep.
To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface immediately, the oil is at the right temperature.
Step 5: Fry the Bread
Carefully slide one rolled-out dough disc into the hot oil.
Use a slotted spoon to press gently on the dough, encouraging it to puff up as it fries.
Fry until the bottom side turns golden brown, then flip and fry the other side. This usually takes 1-2 minutes per side.
Remove the frybread from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain it on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 6: Repeat and Serve
Repeat the process with the remaining dough balls, rolling and frying one at a time.
Serve the frybread hot with your favorite accompaniments:
- Savory Option: Pair with Chole (spicy chickpea curry) or any curry of your choice.
- Sweet Option: Drizzle with honey, sprinkle with powdered sugar, or serve with jam.
Tips and Variations
- Add Herbs: Mix in chopped cilantro, green chilies, or spices like cumin seeds for a savory twist.
- Make It Sweet: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom powder to the dough for a sweet version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Storage: Frybread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To restore its crispiness, reheat it in a skillet or oven before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Quick and easy to make
✅ Versatile—perfect for savory or sweet dishes
✅ Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside
✅ A crowd-pleaser for any occasion
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Resting Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8-10 frybreads
This Indian Frybread is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re serving it with a spicy curry or enjoying it as a sweet snack, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy! 🥘🍞✨