Description

Bannock, also known as Indigenous Fry Bread, is a simple and traditional recipe made with basic pantry ingredients. This easy-to-make fry bread has a crispy golden exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. Perfect as a snack or a base for both sweet and savory toppings, bannock can be served with honey, jam, chili, or beans, making it a versatile dish for any meal or occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

Wet Ingredients

2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
3/4 cup water (adjust as needed)

For Frying

Oil for frying (such as vegetable or canola oil, enough to fill skillet about 1 inch deep)

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Instructions

Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using) in a large bowl until all ingredients are well combined.
Add Fat: Incorporate the vegetable oil or melted butter into the dry mixture, stirring until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Form Dough: Slowly pour in the water while mixing until a soft dough forms. Adjust the water amount as needed to achieve the right consistency.
Knead Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead gently for about one minute until smooth and elastic.
Rest Dough: Let the dough rest for 10-15 minutes to relax the gluten, which helps improve texture.
Shape Bannock: Divide the dough into six equal portions and flatten each piece into a disk about half an inch thick.
Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat until hot enough for frying (around 350°F or until a small piece of dough bubbles immediately).
Fry Bannock: Carefully place the dough discs into the skillet, frying in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
Cook Both Sides: Fry each side for approximately 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping once to ensure even cooking.
Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried bannock from skillet and set on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serve Warm: Serve the bannock warm with your choice of toppings such as honey, jam, chili, or beans for a delicious meal or snack.

Notes

You can adjust water as needed depending on your flour’s absorption to ensure a soft but workable dough.
Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at correct frying temperature for best results and less oil absorption.
For a richer flavor, substitute vegetable oil with melted butter in the dough or for frying.
Leftover bannock can be reheated in a skillet or oven to restore crispiness.
Try topping with savory ingredients for a hearty meal or sweet toppings for a delightful treat.