Oklahoma Indian Tacos Recipe

These Oklahoma Indian Tacos start with soft and fluffy fry bread as the base, topped with flavorful ground beef, beans, and classic taco toppings. This dish brings a taste of the Southwest and is perfect for gatherings, casual dinners, or a family night meal.

Oklahoma Indian Tacos

I love making these Indian tacos because they’re flavorful, hearty, and always a crowd-pleaser. The homemade fry bread is golden and crispy on the outside but soft on the inside, making it the perfect base for toppings. Adding ground beef, beans, and fresh veggies makes it a complete meal. These tacos are fun to assemble and can be customized to everyone’s liking!

Serve these tacos with Classic Salsa Recipe for an extra kick or pair with Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe for a full meal.

Why You’ll Love This Oklahoma Indian Tacos Recipe

• Deliciously Hearty: Fry bread and flavorful toppings make these tacos filling and satisfying.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite taco toppings for a personalized meal.
• Fun and Different: A unique twist on traditional tacos that’s fun to make and eat.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Great for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Main Ingredients for Oklahoma Indian Tacos

1. Fry Bread – The base of the taco, fluffy on the inside and crisp on the outside.
2. Ground Beef – Seasoned beef adds a hearty flavor.
3. Beans – Black or pinto beans add protein and texture.
4. Taco Toppings – Lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and more make it customizable.
5. Spices – Chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder add Southwestern flair.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Oklahoma Indian Tacos Recipe

Here’s how to make these delicious Oklahoma Indian Tacos step by step:

Preparing the Fry Bread

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Gradually add 3/4 cup warm water, mixing until a dough forms.
   • Tip: Adjust with more water or flour as needed to get a soft, smooth dough.
2. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead gently for 1-2 minutes until smooth. Cover with a cloth and let it rest for 15 minutes.
   • Pro Tip: Resting allows the dough to become more pliable and easier to roll out.
3. Shape the Fry Bread: Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten and stretch into a 6-8 inch circle.
   • Serving Idea: Make smaller portions if serving as appetizers.
4. Fry the Bread: In a deep skillet, heat 1-2 inches of oil over medium heat until hot (about 350°F). Fry each dough circle one at a time, cooking for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
   • Tip: Keep the fry bread warm in the oven while preparing the toppings.

Preparing the Topping

5. Cook the Beef and Beans: In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat and add 1 can of black or pinto beans (drained and rinsed), 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
   • Optional: For extra flavor, add diced onions or bell peppers to the skillet.
6. Prepare the Toppings: Chop lettuce, dice tomatoes, and shred cheese. Have sour cream, salsa, and sliced green onions ready for garnish.
   • Variation: Use pickled jalapeños, guacamole, or black olives for additional toppings.

Assemble the Tacos

7. Top the Fry Bread: Place a piece of fry bread on a plate and top with a generous portion of the beef and bean mixture.
   • Serving Idea: Spread a light layer of refried beans on the bread before adding toppings for added flavor.
8. Add the Toppings: Sprinkle lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and any additional toppings on top of the meat mixture. Add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions if desired.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm with extra toppings on the side, letting everyone build their own custom taco.
   • Optional: Serve with hot sauce or extra salsa for spice lovers.

Extra Tips and Variations

• Make it Vegetarian: Replace ground beef with seasoned black beans or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
• Spice it Up: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicier version.
• How to Store: Store leftover fry bread and toppings separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the fry bread dough in advance and refrigerate until ready to use.

Health Benefits of Oklahoma Indian Tacos

These tacos are a balanced meal when enjoyed with a variety of toppings. Ground beef and beans provide protein, while fresh toppings like lettuce and tomatoes add fiber and vitamins. Frying the bread in moderation keeps it crispy without adding too much oil.

• High in Protein: Ground beef and beans make this meal satisfying and protein-rich.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with veggies for added fiber and nutrients.
• Balanced Meal: Fry bread serves as a hearty base, while toppings make it a complete dish.