Lakota Wajapi Ice Cream Sundae

Instructions for Wajapi Sauce:

Step 1

In a saucepan, combine the chokecherries (or substitute fruits) and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, until the fruits are soft.

Step 2

Once the fruits are soft, use a potato masher or fork to mash them and release their juice. Be careful as the juice can stain.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth.

Step 4

Return the mashed fruit mixture to the stove and bring it back to a simmer over low heat.

Step 5

Gradually pour the cornstarch mixture into the simmering fruit mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

Step 6

Continue to cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a sauce-like consistency. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes.

Step 7

Taste the Wajope sauce and adjust the sweetness by adding sugar if desired.

Step 8

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the Wajope sauce cool slightly.

Instructions for Lakota Fry Bread:

Step 9

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 10

Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for a few minutes until it becomes smooth.

Step 11

Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for about 10 minutes.

Step 12

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to a depth of about 2 inches, over medium-high heat.

Step 13

Divide the dough into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.

Step 14

On a floured surface, flatten each dough ball into a round disc, approximately 1/4 inch thick.

Step 15

Carefully place the flattened dough into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides, turning once. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 16

Once cooked, remove the fry bread from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. Repeat the process with the remaining dough portions.

Assembly:

Step 17

Place a piece of Lakota fry bread on each serving plate.

Step 18

Scoop a generous portion of vanilla ice cream onto the fry bread.

Step 19

Drizzle the Wajope sauce generously over the ice cream and fry bread.

Step 20

Add whipped cream on top of the sauce.

Step 21

Sprinkle with chopped nuts and drizzle with chocolate sauce or caramel sauce.

Step 22

Optionally, garnish with fresh berries.

Step 23

Serve immediately.