If you’re craving a mouthwatering fusion of Native American and Southwestern flavors, look no further than the Navajo Taco Burger. This delectable recipe combines the hearty goodness of a burger with the vibrant spices and toppings traditionally found in Navajo Tacos. With juicy ground beef, warm frybread buns, and a tantalizing array of toppings, this burger is sure to transport your taste buds straight to the enchanting landscapes of New Mexico. Get ready to savor every bite of this flavorful creation that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the Navajo people and the bold flavors of the Southwest.
Ingredients
For the burger patty
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
For the taco toppings and burger assembly
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup sliced pickles
- 4 slices of American cheese
- 4 burger buns
For the fry bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- Vegetable oil for frying
Burger Patty Recipe
Step 1: Combining the ingredients
To make the perfect burger patty, start by combining the ground beef, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a bowl. Mix everything together until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
Step 2: Shaping the patties
Divide the seasoned ground beef mixture into four equal portions. Take each portion and shape it into a patty, making sure to flatten it evenly and maintain a consistent thickness. This will ensure that the patties cook evenly and result in a juicy burger.
Step 3: Cooking the patties
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the burger patties for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. If you prefer a well-done patty, cook them for a few minutes longer.
Taco Toppings and Burger Assembly
Step 1: Preparing the taco toppings
While the burger patties are cooking, prepare the taco toppings. Shred the lettuce, dice the tomatoes and onions, and slice the pickles. Set aside these taco toppings for assembling later.
Step 2: Assembling the burger
Once the burger patties are cooked to perfection, place a slice of American cheese on top of each patty while they are still hot. The residual heat will melt the cheese and give your burger an extra layer of deliciousness. Take a burger bun and spread your favorite condiments on the bottom half, such as mayo or ketchup. Then place the cheese-topped patty on the bun and add a generous amount of the taco toppings you prepared earlier. Top it off with the remaining half of the burger bun and your Navajo Taco Burger is ready to be devoured!
Fry Bread Recipe
Step 1: Mixing the ingredients
To make the fry bread, start by combining the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Mix well to ensure that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Resting the dough
Slowly pour in the warm water, stirring the mixture with a wooden spoon or your hands until a soft dough forms. Once the dough comes together, cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This resting time allows the gluten in the dough to relax, making it easier to shape and fry later.
Step 3: Shaping and frying the bread
After the dough has rested, divide it into small portions and shape each portion into a round disc. Heat a large skillet or deep-fryer with vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the dough discs in the hot oil, frying them until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the fry bread to a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil.
Serving Suggestions
Option 1: Classic Navajo Taco Burger
For a classic Navajo Taco Burger, start by placing a fry bread on a plate. Top it with a generous spoonful of the seasoned ground beef mixture, followed by the shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, and pickles. Finish it off with a dollop of sour cream or salsa, and fold the fry bread over the toppings like a taco.
Option 2: Southwest-Style Navajo Taco Burger
If you’re looking to add a Southwestern twist to your Navajo Taco Burger, try adding some guacamole, sliced jalapeños, and a drizzle of chipotle sauce to the toppings. The creamy guacamole, spicy jalapeños, and smoky chipotle sauce will bring a burst of flavor to your burger, taking it to the next level of deliciousness.
Conclusion
With its combination of a juicy burger patty, fresh taco toppings, and a crispy, homemade fry bread, the Navajo Taco Burger is a culinary delight that brings together the best of American comfort food and the flavors of the Southwest. Whether you choose the classic version or opt for a spicier, Southwest-style variation, this burger will satisfy your cravings for both burgers and tacos. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and take a bite into this unique and mouthwatering creation. Enjoy!
