Gabubu Bread Recipe

Jennifer Segal

7 Sep, 2023

Discover the savory twist you've been craving with our Gabubu Bread recipe! Easy, unique, and bursting with flavor. Try it now!

Gabubu Bread

Publisher: Lofty Recipes
Cuisine: American
Category: Side dish
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes per bread
Servings: 4
Calories: 280 calories

About this recipe

Gabubu bread is a regional specialty with roots in South Dakota, USA. This skillet bread offers a rustic and comforting twist on traditional fry bread.

What sets Gabubu bread apart is its use of fewer cooking oils compared to some other fry bread recipes, making it a relatively healthier option.

The basic ingredients for Gabubu bread typically include all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, milk, and either bacon fat or oil for frying.

These simple components come together to create a dough that is mixed, kneaded, and then fried in a skillet. The result is a round, flat, and crispy bread with a slightly golden-brown exterior.

One distinctive feature of Gabubu bread is its adaptability. While the basic recipe remains consistent, variations abound. Some cooks choose to add herbs, spices, or even grated cheese to the dough for extra flavor. Others might serve it with sweet toppings like honey or powdered sugar for a delightful contrast.

Gabubu bread is often enjoyed as a side dish or even a main course, especially when topped with savory ingredients like chili or ground meat. Its versatility and connection to South Dakota's culinary heritage make it a beloved regional specialty and a delicious choice for those seeking a taste of comfort and tradition.

Recipe origin and background

Gabubu bread, sometimes spelled "gabububread" or "gabubu buns," has its roots in the indigenous culinary traditions of the Lakota Sioux people, who are native to the Great Plains of North America. It is particularly associated with the state of South Dakota, which has a significant Native American population, including the Lakota Sioux.

The word "gabubu" itself is said to be a Sioux term, but its precise meaning and origin can vary. Some sources suggest that "gabubu" means "fat" or "grease," which could be a reference to the use of fat or oil in frying the bread. Others claim it might be a regional colloquialism or a family-specific term.

Gabubu bread is essentially a variation of fry bread, a Native American staple that involves frying a simple dough in oil or fat. While fry bread recipes can vary widely across different Native American tribes and regions, Gabubu bread is known for its use of less oil compared to some other fry bread recipes.

It's worth noting that Gabubu bread, like fry bread, has both cultural and historical significance. It has been a part of Native American cuisine for generations, often served at gatherings, celebrations, and cultural events. Over time, variations of the recipe have emerged, reflecting individual and regional preferences.

In recent years, there has been an effort to preserve and celebrate indigenous food traditions, including recipes like Gabubu bread, as a way to honor Native American heritage and cuisine. As a result, you can find variations of this bread served in restaurants and cultural events in South Dakota and beyond.

Why try this Gabubu Bread recipe?

Trying the Savory Herb and Cheese Gabubu Bread recipe can be a delightful culinary experience for several reasons:

Unique Flavor: This recipe offers a unique twist on traditional skillet bread, incorporating savory herbs and cheddar cheese. The combination of flavors creates a delicious and memorable taste that's different from standard bread recipes.
Versatility: Gabubu bread is incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a side dish, use it as a base for sandwiches, enjoy it with various toppings, or even turn it into an appetizer. Its adaptability makes it a valuable addition to your recipe repertoire.
Cultural Connection: Gabubu bread has its roots in Native American cuisine, particularly among the Lakota Sioux people in South Dakota. Preparing and savoring this bread can provide a connection to indigenous food traditions and cultural heritage.
Simple Preparation: This recipe is relatively easy to make, even for novice cooks. It doesn't require complex techniques or specialized equipment, making it accessible to a wide range of home cooks.
Customization: You have the freedom to customize the recipe to your liking. Experiment with different herbs, cheeses, or additional ingredients to create a Gabubu bread that suits your taste preferences.
Comfort Food: Gabubu bread has a comforting, homey quality that makes it perfect for cozy meals or gatherings with friends and family. It's a comforting and satisfying bread option.
Learning Experience: Trying new recipes is a great way to expand your culinary skills and knowledge. You can gain confidence in working with dough and frying techniques while making this bread.
Delicious Results: Ultimately, the most compelling reason to try this recipe is the delicious end result. The crispy exterior, soft cheesy interior, and savory herb-infused flavor make it a delightful treat that's worth savoring.

So, whether you're seeking a new and flavorful bread option, a connection to cultural traditions, or simply an enjoyable cooking project, trying the Gabubu bread recipe can be a rewarding and tasty endeavor.

What does Gabubu Bread taste like?

Gabubu bread, like many skillet bread and fry bread variations, has a distinct taste characterized by its preparation method and ingredients.

Crispy and Golden Brown Exterior: The bread is typically fried in oil or fat, which gives it a crispy and slightly crunchy texture on the outside. The frying process creates a golden-brown crust that adds a pleasant contrast to the interior.
Soft and Chewy Interior: Inside, Gabubu bread is soft and chewy, similar to a well-made doughnut or fried dough. The interior texture is often described as doughy and satisfying.
Savory and Slightly Salty: The base of the bread, made from flour, baking powder, and salt, imparts a savory and slightly salty flavor. The salt enhances the overall taste and complements any additional seasonings or toppings.
Herb and Cheese Infusion: In the case of the Savory Herb and Cheese Gabubu Bread recipe I provided earlier, the bread's flavor is further enriched by the addition of herbs and cheddar cheese. The herbs add an aromatic and earthy note, while the cheese contributes a rich, savory, and slightly tangy taste. This combination creates a delightful depth of flavor that sets it apart from plain fry bread.
Versatile: The taste of Gabubu bread is versatile, making it suitable for both savory and sweet applications. Depending on how it's served and what toppings or accompaniments you use, it can take on different flavor profiles. For instance, you can enjoy it with chili for a hearty, savory experience or with honey and powdered sugar for a sweet treat.

In summary, Gabubu bread offers a delightful combination of textures, with a crispy exterior and a soft interior. Its base has a savory and slightly salty taste, which can be enhanced with herbs and cheese, creating a flavorful and versatile bread that can be tailored to suit various culinary preferences.

What is in Gabubu Bread?

All-Purpose Flour: This is the primary dry ingredient for the bread. It provides the structure and body to the dough.
Baking Powder: Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the bread rise and become light and fluffy.
Salt: Salt adds flavor to the bread and enhances its overall taste. It's a common seasoning in bread recipes.
Dried Mixed Herbs: Dried herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano, contribute aromatic and earthy flavors to the bread, giving it a savory twist.
Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese is used for its rich, savory, and slightly tangy flavor. It also adds a creamy texture when melted into the bread.
Milk: Milk is the liquid component of the dough. It provides moisture and helps bind the ingredients together.
Olive Oil (for frying): Olive oil is used for frying the bread in a skillet. It adds a mild, fruity flavor and helps achieve a crispy exterior.
Fresh Chives (for garnish): Fresh chives are chopped and used as a garnish, adding a burst of fresh onion-like flavor to the finished bread.

Equipment required for this recipe

Mixing Bowl: A mixing bowl is used to combine the dry ingredients and mix the dough. A large bowl made of glass, stainless steel, or plastic is suitable. If you don't have a mixing bowl, you can use any large, deep container.
Skillet or Frying Pan: A skillet or frying pan is essential for frying the bread. Ideally, use a non-stick skillet, as it requires less oil and makes flipping the bread easier. If you don't have a skillet, you can use a deep-sided frying pan.
Spatula or Tongs: You'll need a spatula or tongs for flipping the bread while frying to ensure even cooking. If you don't have these tools, you can use a fork or another utensil that allows you to turn the bread safely.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Measuring cups and spoons are used to measure the dry and liquid ingredients. If you don't have these, you can use standard kitchen utensils like a coffee mug or a regular spoon, but be mindful of accuracy.
Knife and Cutting Board: You'll need a knife and cutting board to chop fresh chives for garnish. If you don't have fresh chives, you can use scissors or any sharp knife for cutting.
Paper Towels: Paper towels are used to drain excess oil from the fried bread after removing it from the skillet. If you don't have paper towels, you can use a clean kitchen towel or napkins.
Stove: A stovetop or cooktop is required for heating the skillet and frying the bread. Ensure your stovetop is in good working condition and follow safety guidelines when using it.

How to make Gabubu Bread

Unlock a culinary adventure with our Gabubu Bread recipe! Dive into the rich history and flavors of this unique skillet bread delight.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon dried mixed herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives (for garnish)

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and dried herbs.
Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the dry ingredients, ensuring even distribution.
Slowly pour in the milk and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough briefly until it's smooth and not too sticky. You can adjust the milk or flour if needed for the right consistency.
Divide the dough into 4 equal portions and shape each into a round, flat disk about 1/2 inch thick.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place a dough disk into the skillet.
Fry each side until it's golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Remove the bread from the skillet and place it on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Sprinkle the freshly chopped chives over the Gabubu bread for a burst of fresh flavor.
Serve the Savory Herb and Cheese Gabubu Bread warm. You can enjoy it plain or as a side dish with your favorite soup or stew.

This unique twist on Gabubu bread combines the rich flavor of sharp cheddar cheese with fragrant herbs, making it a delicious and savory treat. Enjoy!

Gabubu Bread servings

You can serve the Savory Herb and Cheese Gabubu Bread in various ways to enjoy its delicious flavors. Here are a few serving suggestions:

As a Side Dish: Serve the Gabubu bread as a side dish with soups, stews, or salads. Its savory and cheesy flavor pairs well with a wide range of main courses.
Dipping Bread: Cut the bread into wedges or strips and use it as a dipping bread for sauces, dips, or spreads. It's perfect for accompanying hummus, salsa, or even a cheese fondue.
Sandwich Base: Use the Gabubu bread as a unique base for sandwiches. Add your favorite sandwich fillings like sliced turkey, roast beef, veggies, and condiments for a delightful sandwich experience.
Appetizer: Cut the bread into bite-sized pieces and serve it as a tasty appetizer at gatherings or parties. You can even top it with ingredients like smoked salmon and cream cheese for an elegant appetizer option.
Snacking: Enjoy it on its own as a savory snack. The cheesy, herby flavor makes it a satisfying treat when you're looking for something flavorful between meals.
Breakfast: Make a breakfast sandwich by adding scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese between two slices of Gabubu bread.

Dont forget to serve it warm for the best flavor and texture. The versatility of this bread allows you to get creative with how you enjoy it, so feel free to experiment with different toppings and accompaniments to suit your taste preferences.

Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 629 reviews.

Recipe Tags: Gabubu Bread, Gabubu Bread Recipe, Recipe, Easy, Homemade, Top rated

My recommendations and tips

Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work well in this recipe, using fresh herbs can take the flavor to the next level. If you have fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano available, chop them finely and use them in place of dried herbs for a more vibrant taste.
Don't Overwork the Dough: When mixing and kneading the dough, be careful not to overwork it. Overworking the dough can lead to a tougher texture in the finished bread. Just knead until the ingredients are combined and the dough is smooth.
Adjust Consistency: The amount of milk you need may vary depending on factors like humidity and the specific flour you use. If your dough seems too dry, add a little more milk, and if it's too sticky, add a bit more flour until you achieve the right consistency.
Maintain the Right Oil Temperature: When frying, ensure that the oil is hot enough before adding the bread dough. It should sizzle when you place the dough in the skillet. Use medium-high heat, and monitor the oil temperature to prevent burning.
Use a Non-Stick Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for frying Gabubu bread because it requires less oil, and it's easier to flip the bread without it sticking.
Serve Promptly: Gabubu bread is best enjoyed immediately after frying when it's still warm and crispy. Serve it promptly to experience its full flavor and texture.
Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings and serving ideas. Whether you want to add different herbs, spices, or serve it with various dips and spreads, there are endless possibilities to customize this recipe to your liking.

Potential ingredients substitutes

Flour: If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour. Be sure to choose a blend that is suitable for baking.
Milk: If you're lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet, you can replace dairy milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Make sure it's an unsweetened and unflavored variety to maintain the savory taste of the bread.
Cheddar Cheese: While cheddar cheese adds a delicious flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses. Try mozzarella, Swiss, or a dairy-free vegan cheese if you're avoiding dairy products.
Herbs: You can customize the herb blend based on your preferences. Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or dill can be used instead of or in addition to dried herbs for a fresher flavor.
Olive Oil: If you don't have olive oil, you can use other cooking oils like vegetable oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil for frying. You can also substitute melted butter for a rich flavor.
Chives: If you don't have fresh chives, you can replace them with other fresh herbs like green onions or finely chopped parsley for garnish.
Baking Powder: In a pinch, you can use a combination of cream of tartar and baking soda as a substitute for baking powder. Mix 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar with 1/4 teaspoon baking soda for each teaspoon of baking powder required.