A Global Twist on a Timeless Comfort
Fry bread holds a special place in many hearts, a testament to simple ingredients transforming into something truly comforting. This recipe takes that beloved tradition and gives it a playful, flavorful twist, drawing inspiration from East Asian aromatics. Imagine the warm, chewy texture of freshly fried dough, now with the subtle bite of scallions and the nutty depth of sesame, all brought together by a bright, tangy dipping sauce. It’s an unexpectedly delicious journey for your taste buds, incredibly easy for even the most novice cook, and sure to become a new favorite.
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Servings
4-6
Cuisine: Fusion (Native American & Asian Inspired) | Diet: None (contains gluten) | Skill Level: Beginner | Cost: Affordable
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (or warm milk for a richer dough)
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh scallions (green parts only)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 3-4 cups vegetable oil, for frying
- For the Ginger-Soy Dipping Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to taste)
👨🍳 Chef’s Tips
- Dough Consistency is Key: The dough should be soft and slightly tacky, but not overly sticky. If it’s too dry, add water one teaspoon at a time; if too wet, add flour. A well-hydrated dough will yield a tender fry bread.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Frying at the correct temperature is crucial. Too low, and the bread will absorb too much oil and be greasy; too high, and it will burn on the outside before cooking through. Use a thermometer or test with a small piece of dough.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Fry in batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping too much. Overcrowding can lead to unevenly cooked, greasy fry bread.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment! Add a pinch of garlic powder or a tiny bit of red pepper flakes to the dough for an extra kick. A squeeze of lime juice in the dipping sauce can also add another layer of brightness.
- Resting Time Matters: Don’t skip the dough resting step. It allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to work with and resulting in a more tender and pliable fry bread.
Preparation
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Make a well in the center.
- Gradually pour the warm water (or milk) into the well, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. Continue to mix until it comes together into a soft, slightly sticky ball.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently for 2-3 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. It should have a soft, pliable texture, similar to a soft earlobe.
- Flatten the dough slightly and sprinkle the chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds over it. Fold the dough over itself a few times and knead for another minute or so, just enough to evenly distribute the scallions and sesame seeds throughout the dough. You should see flecks of green and sesame dots. Avoid over-kneading at this stage.
- Shape the dough back into a ball, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest at room temperature for at least 15 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll and creating a more tender fry bread.
- While the dough rests, prepare the Ginger-Soy Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, sesame oil, and sugar (if using). Whisk well until the sugar dissolves. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed; it should be a balance of savory, tangy, and a hint of ginger spice. Set aside.
- After resting, divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. On a lightly floured surface, gently flatten each piece into a disk about 4-5 inches in diameter and about 1/4 inch thick. You can use your hands or a rolling pin. Create a small slit or poke a hole in the center of each disk to prevent it from puffing up too much during frying, ensuring even cooking.
Cooking
- Pour the vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, ensuring it’s at least 2-3 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F (175-195°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough in; it should sizzle immediately and float to the surface within a few seconds.
- Carefully place 1-2 pieces of fry bread into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. The dough should sizzle vigorously and begin to puff up, turning a lovely golden brown.
- Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until each piece is beautifully golden brown on both sides, with a crispy exterior and a puffed, airy interior. You’ll notice the distinct, savory aroma of fried dough mingling with the subtle scent of scallion and sesame.
- Using tongs or a slotted spoon, remove the cooked fry bread from the oil and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Repeat with the remaining dough, making sure the oil temperature stays consistent between batches.
Serving
Serve the Savory Scallion Sesame Fry Bread immediately while still warm and wonderfully crispy. Arrange them artfully on a platter, perhaps garnished with a sprinkle of fresh scallion greens or extra sesame seeds for visual appeal. Offer the Ginger-Soy Dipping Sauce in a small bowl alongside, allowing everyone to dip and enjoy. The contrast of the warm, savory fry bread with the cool, bright sauce is absolutely delightful.
Storage
Leftover fry bread is best enjoyed fresh. If you have any, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. To reheat, warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven until crispy again. The dipping sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 9g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fat | 15g |
A Simple Pleasure, A World of Flavor
This Savory Scallion Sesame Fry Bread recipe proves that you don’t need complex techniques or exotic ingredients to create something truly special. It’s a testament to the magic of fusion, where familiar comforts meet exciting new tastes. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a casual gathering, or simply to satisfy a craving for something unique, this dish is sure to impress with its irresistible texture and intriguing flavor profile. Enjoy the journey of culinary exploration!
Tags: fry bread, fusion recipe, scallion bread, sesame bread, beginner friendly, ginger soy, savory snack
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