
Frybread with Stew or Chili is a hearty, comforting dish consisting of a pillowy, golden-fried flatbread served as a base for a savory topping. The stew or chili typically features ground beef or beans in a rich, seasoned tomato sauce. It is a staple of Native American cuisine, particularly associated with the Navajo Nation and other Southwestern tribes, and is often served at powwows and gatherings.
This dish is high in carbohydrates and fat, primarily from the fried bread and the meat-based stew. It provides a substantial amount of calories, protein from the stew, and key minerals like iron and potassium, with a typical serving ranging from 600 to 900 calories.
| Calories | 750 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbs | 65 g |
| Fat | 40 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 1100 mg |
| Iron | 5 mg |
| Potassium | 600 mg |
| Calcium | 80 mg |
| Vitamin A | 1500 IU |
| Vitamin C | 12 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 6 mg |
| Phosphorus | 300 mg |
| Zinc | 4 mg |
Per 1 serving (1 piece of frybread with 1 cup of beef chili) · estimated, varies by recipe
Frybread has a complex history, originating from the rations given to Native Americans during forced relocations in the 19th century. It has since been reclaimed as a symbol of resilience and cultural identity, though it is also debated within communities due to its ties to historical hardship and its modern nutritional profile.