Homemade Naan Bread

Homemade Naan Bread is a soft, pillowy flatbread that’s slightly chewy with a deliciously charred surface. It’s a staple in Indian cuisine, perfect for scooping up curries, stews, or enjoying as a side with dips and spreads. Making naan from scratch is easier than you think, and the results are far superior to store-bought versions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and fluffy texture – This naan is light and airy, perfect for soaking up sauces.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and no special equipment required.
• Customizable – Add garlic, herbs, or cheese for extra flavor.
• Tastes better than store-bought – Freshly made naan has an unbeatable flavor and texture.
• Pairs well with many dishes – Serve it with Indian curries, Mediterranean dips, or even use it as a pizza base.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Yeast (instant or active dry)
• Sugar
• Salt
• Warm water
• Yogurt (plain)
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Garlic (optional, for garlic naan)
• Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Activate the yeast: If using active dry yeast, dissolve it in warm water with sugar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, yogurt, and yeast mixture. Knead until a soft dough forms.
3. Let it rise: Cover the dough and let it rest in a warm place for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.
4. Divide and shape: Punch down the dough, divide it into equal portions, and roll each into an oval or round shape.
5. Cook the naan: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook each piece for 1-2 minutes on each side until bubbles form and golden brown spots appear.
6. Brush and serve: Brush with melted butter or garlic butter and sprinkle with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 pieces
• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1-2 hours rising time)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes (plus rising time)

Variations

• Garlic Naan: Add minced garlic to the dough or brush cooked naan with garlic butter.
• Cheese-Stuffed Naan: Fill with shredded cheese before cooking.
• Whole Wheat Naan: Substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• Herb Naan: Mix chopped cilantro, parsley, or rosemary into the dough or as a topping.
• Spicy Naan: Add chili flakes or finely chopped green chilies to the dough for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover naan in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze naan in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes, or microwave for 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make naan without yeast?

Yes! Use baking powder and baking soda as a substitute, though the texture will be slightly different.

Why is my naan not fluffy?

Make sure your yeast is active, and allow enough rising time for the dough to double in size.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but the naan will be slightly denser. A 50/50 mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour works well.

How do I get naan to have those signature bubbles?

Cook on a very hot skillet and don’t flip too soon to allow air pockets to form.

Can I cook naan in the oven instead of a skillet?

Yes, bake at 500°F (260°C) for about 3-5 minutes on a pizza stone or baking sheet.

Can I use milk instead of yogurt?

Yes, but yogurt adds a nice tang and helps with the texture. If substituting, use a bit of lemon juice for acidity.

How can I make naan dairy-free?

Use a plant-based yogurt and olive oil instead of butter.

What’s the best way to reheat naan?

A skillet works best for restoring texture, but the oven or microwave also works in a pinch.

Can I make naan ahead of time?

Yes! Store cooked naan and reheat before serving. You can also refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before cooking.

What dishes go well with naan?

Naan pairs perfectly with Indian curries, soups, stews, hummus, tzatziki, or even as a wrap for sandwiches.

Conclusion

Homemade Naan Bread is soft, fluffy, and easy to make with just a few ingredients. Whether you enjoy it plain, with garlic, or stuffed with cheese, this versatile flatbread is a must-try. Freshly made naan is far superior to store-bought, making it a perfect addition to your home-cooked meals!

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