indian fry bread by: linda ly & emily nguyen

description Native American food found throughout the United States A flat dough shaped like a Frisbee and is fried or deep- fried in oil, shortening, or lard Usually lumpy, puffed up with a crispy crust, and has air bubbles Can be made into a desert or a main dish Can be served at home or at gatherings like powwows and state fairs

history “The Long Walk of the Navajo” Scout Kit Carson and his troops sent by the U.S. government forced Navajos to Fort Summer Navajos were given sparse rations, including flour and lard, the basics for Indian fry bread Originated in Fort Summer, New Mexico Removal of Indians from native lands

importance Connotations Staple Food Item Synonymous with Indian culture since food is a big part of Indian culture A tradition to the Native Americans Considered a spiritual food Many Indians cannot imagine going without fry bread

ties from material culture to identity Pierre Bourdieu Theory of Class Distinction “[Taste] functions as a sort of social orientation, a ‘sense of one’s place’, guiding the occupants of a given…social space towards the social positions adjusted to their properties, and towards the practices or goods which befit the occupants of that position.” Transforming foods and social identities

revitalization Sacred folktales Purification of the Earth Restoration of Indian grounds Reminder of misfortunes Commemoration

traditional recipe – 4 cups flour – 2 tablespoon baking powder – 1 teaspoon salt – ½ cup shortening – 1 cup warm water Combine dry ingredients in a bowl. Gradually add in shortening and water but only add in enough water to make dough stick together. Knead dough until smooth and make into fist-sized balls. Cover them with a towel for 10 minutes. Pat them out into circles about the size of a pancake. Fry in hot oil until brown and bubbles appear on the dough and on both sides. Drain on paper towels and serve hot!

changes in recipe over time Origin of fry bread was flatbread quick-fried in lard Mono-unsaturated oil (canola or peanut oil) was used for grease instead of lard Barley flour became another choice of flour Ingredients vary today Main ingredients are white flour, salt, baking powder and lard/shortening

options to eat Indian tacos consists of ground beef, chili, shredded American cheese, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, diced onions, and pinto beans on top of a fry bread Fry bread with red chili and beans Can be eaten like bread with soup, stew, or posole Extra sweet version of fry bread with powdered sugar, cinnamon, fruit jam, butter, or honey on top

fun facts Is the official state bread of South Dakota Tastes like funnel cake Also known as bannock Is a leading factor in Native American obesity and diabetes

our experience

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