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.