Fry Bread

Directions

1. 1
   In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, mix the flour, salt, and baking powder to combine. Add the melted butter and water and mix on low speed until the mixture forms a smooth dough, 2-3 minutes.
2. 2
   You can also mix the dough by hand-start by using a flexible spatula for 1-2 minutes and then switch to your hands once the mixture comes together. Knead for 4-6 minutes until smooth.
3. 3
   Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and let rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour.
4. 4
   Lightly flour your work surface. Unwrap the dough and divide it into 12 even pieces. (I use my bench knife for this, but any knife works.)
5. 5
   Heat about 4 inches of oil in a large, deep pot until it registers about 350°F (or you can tear off a little scrap of dough and toss it into the oil as a tester-if the dough immediately rises to the surface and has small bubbles all around it, you're good to go).
6. 6
   Working one piece at a time, roll out the dough into a round about 1/4 -1/3 inch thick. Pierce the center of each piece of dough with a paring knife. (Don't worry, it just keeps the dough from forming one giant air bubble when you're frying it later. You won't even notice it.)
7. 7
   Working in batches (sometimes I do it one at a time-they're pretty big!), fry the dough until golden brown on both sides, 2-4 minutes per side. If large bubbles form in the dough, you can pierce them with the tip of a knife to remove the excess air.
8. 8
   Remove the frybread from the oil and drain on a rack set over absorbent paper towels.
9. 9
   Serve warm or at room temperature, plain or with toppings. (I like to use them as a taco/tostada shell, filled with ground beef and tons of veggies!)