Description
This Garlic Naan Bread recipe is a delicious homemade Indian flatbread perfect as a side dish or for wraps. Soft and flavorful, it features a garlicky butter topping and is cooked on the stovetop for an authentic taste and texture. Perfect for pairing with curries, soups, or enjoying on its own warm.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Garlic Butter Topping
- 3 tablespoons melted butter or ghee
- 3–4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the yogurt, vegetable oil, and the activated yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape Naan: Punch down the dough and divide it into 6–8 equal balls. Roll each ball on a lightly floured surface into an oval or round shape about 1/4-inch thick.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter or ghee with the finely minced garlic.
- Cook Naan: Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Place one rolled dough piece into the dry, hot skillet. Cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbles form and the bottom shows golden brown spots.
- Flip and Cook Other Side: Turn the naan and cook the other side for 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
- Brush with Garlic Butter: Immediately brush the hot naan with the garlic butter mixture and sprinkle with chopped cilantro if desired.
- Repeat and Serve: Repeat the cooking process with remaining dough pieces. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra char and authentic flavor, gently press the naan with a spatula while cooking to create more contact with the skillet.
- This naan pairs perfectly with curries, soups, or can be used as a wrap for various fillings.
- Leftover naan breads can be refrigerated or frozen and reheated in a skillet or oven for freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
