Fry Bread

Instructions

1. Whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder in a large mixing bowl until evenly distributed. Pour the hot water in gradually while stirring with a wooden spoon — the dough will look shaggy at first, then come together into a somewhat sticky mass that pulls away from the bowl sides.
2. Drizzle the 3 tablespoons of oil evenly over the dough surface, then cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rest at room temperature — this relaxes the gluten and makes the dough much easier to shape later.

   ⏱ 2 hrs
3. Pinch off portions of dough about the size of a golf ball, then gently stretch each piece with your hands into a thin round, working from the center outward. Aim for translucent thinness without creating holes — the dough should be pliable enough to stretch easily after its rest.
4. Pour the quart of oil into a heavy pot or deep skillet to a depth of 2 inches. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches exactly 350°F on a deep-fry thermometer — this temperature ensures the bread cooks through while developing a beautiful golden crust.
5. Carefully slide one piece of stretched dough into the hot oil — it should sizzle immediately and start to puff. Fry until deep golden brown on the bottom, about 1-2 minutes, then flip with tongs and cook the second side until equally golden. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and repeat with remaining dough pieces.