Indian Fry Bread (Hoe Cake)

"Want to make a Hoe Cake? Follow directions below except have a nice clean garden hoe and a large roaring fire. Rub some lard on the hoe, then heat it in the fire. Place the flattened dough on the heated hoe and hold it against the fire and bake it without burning it. Try it and see if you can do it. It is a challenge. Or, do as my grandmother did and bake it in a pie pan and make someone in your house feel special." Cliff Lowe

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons shortening
• Enough cold water to make a soft, but firm dough;3/4 to 1 cup liquid

METHOD

Combine flour, baking powder and salt. Add shortening and cut through with knife until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Add liquid to make a dough that is soft but not sticky. If it is too sticky, just add a little flour, two tablespoons at a time, and knead until mixture is the right consistency.

Heat enough fat (any type: lard, bacon fat, vegetable oil, etc.) to cover the bottom of a large skillet.

Form dough into a ball, divide into 4 equal parts. Form each part into a round ball, then flatten with your hands to form a round, flat bread.

Place in hot fat and fry until bottom side is golden brown, then turn and cook in the same manner until the other side is light brown and the cake has puffed. Repeat for each piece of dough until all are done. Serve with butter and/or jam or jelly.

Makes 8 (1/2 round) servings.

recipe from www.inmamaskitchen.com

Contributor: Cliff Lowe

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