Simple Fried Bread Recipe: Crunchy Outside, Soft Inside

I’ve perfected a simple fried bread recipe that’s both crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. This classic comfort food is ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or as a side to your favorite soups and stews.

The secret lies in using high-quality bread and precise frying techniques. By heating oil to the right temperature (375°F), you’ll achieve a golden crust while maintaining a soft interior. Let’s get started!

Ingredients for Simple Fried Bread

Simple ingredients for a deliciously crispy outside and soft inside fried bread.

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The bread matters here. Look for a hearty, dense loaf—the kind that’d be great for toast. Day-old bread works best as it’s drier and fries up crisper. I usually grab mine from local bakeries or Whole Foods for quality. If you’re using fresh bread, try toasting it lightly first to dry it out a bit.

No garlic powder? Minced fresh garlic works great too—just be careful not to burn it. For extra crispiness, some folks like to chill the bread slices for 30 minutes before frying. If you’re out of Italian seasoning, a mix of dried oregano and basil gets you close. The paprika adds a nice smoky flavor, but it’s optional if you don’t have it.

Fried bread keeps for 1-2 days at room temperature if you can resist eating it all immediately. To reheat, a quick 5-10 minute oven at 350°F crisps it right back up. Don’t refrigerate as it gets soggy. You can also freeze cooked slices on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Simple Fried Bread

Follow these straightforward steps to achieve perfectly crispy fried bread with a soft interior every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Loaf for Frying

Start by slicing the 1 whole Bread Loaf into 1-inch thick slices. I prefer using day-old bread for this recipe as it holds up better to frying. You’ll need about 8-10 slices depending on the size of your loaf. Make sure the slices are relatively even so they cook consistently.

In a small bowl, mix together the 1 tsp Salt, 0.5 tsp Black Pepper, 0.25 tsp Garlic Powder, 0.25 tsp Italian Seasoning, and 0.25 tsp Paprika. This spice blend will add depth to your fried bread without overpowering it.

Step 2: Heat the Vegetable Oil to the Right Temperature

Pour the 2 cups Vegetable Oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer. The oil should be about 1-2 inches deep in the pan. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature accurately. Once the oil is hot, reduce the heat to medium to maintain the temperature.

While the oil is heating up, you can prepare your bread slices by sprinkling both sides with the prepared spice blend. Make sure to coat them evenly for consistent flavor.

Step 3: Fry the Bread Slices to Golden Perfection

Carefully place 2-3 bread slices into the hot oil, depending on the size of your pan. Don’t overcrowd the pan as this can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy bread. Fry the bread for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy. You’ll know they’re ready when they float to the surface and have a nice crust forming.

Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried bread from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Repeat this process with the remaining bread slices. Keep the fried bread warm in a 200°F oven while you finish frying the rest.

Step 4: Serve the Fried Bread Immediately

Once all the bread slices are fried, serve them immediately while they’re still crispy. You can enjoy the fried bread on its own or paired with your favorite dips or toppings. The combination of the crispy exterior and soft interior makes for a delicious treat that’s sure to please.

Regional Styles of simple fried bread

Italian-Style Fried Bread

In Italy, fried bread is known as “fritto misto” or simply “pane fritto”. To make it Italian-style, I use Italian bread or Ciabatta and sprinkle with fresh rosemary and sea salt after frying. You can also drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil for added richness. 🌿

Spanish-Style Fried Bread (Pan Frito)

In Spain, pan frito is a popular tapas dish. To make it Spanish-style, I use crusty baguette slices and fry them until crispy. After frying, I rub the bread with raw garlic and sprinkle with smoked paprika (pimentón). Serve with olive oil for dipping. 🔥

Indian-Style Fried Bread (Pav)

In Indian cuisine, fried bread is often used in dishes like vada pav. To make Indian-style fried bread, I use soft dinner rolls (pav) and fry them until golden brown. You can serve the fried pav with spicy potato fritters (vada) or enjoy it on its own with chutney. 🍞

Mexican-Style Fried Bread (Tostadas)

In Mexico, fried bread is the base for tostadas. To make Mexican-style fried bread, I use corn tortillas or white bread and fry them until crispy. Top the fried bread with refried beans, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and crumbled queso fresco. You can also add sliced jalapeños or sour cream for extra flavor. 🌯

Greek-Style Fried Bread (Tiganopsomo)

In Greece, tiganopsomo is a popular fried bread often served as a snack or appetizer. To make Greek-style fried bread, I use crusty bread slices and fry them until golden. After frying, I drizzle the bread with extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt and oregano. You can also top it with feta cheese or tomato for added flavor. 🧀