Description
This easy garlic naan bread recipe delivers soft, fluffy, and flavorful naan with a rich garlic butter finish. Made with simple ingredients like flour, yogurt, and yeast, this homemade naan is perfect for serving alongside Indian dishes or enjoying as a snack. The dough is activated with yeast, allowed to rise, then cooked on a skillet for a quick stovetop preparation that yields delicious results in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 package (0.25 oz) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
Garlic Butter Topping
- 3 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the plain yogurt and oil or ghee, then pour in the activated yeast mixture. Mix everything together until a rough dough starts to form.
- Knead Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Once kneaded, place the dough in a bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Divide and Shape: After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into eight equal pieces and roll each piece into an oval shape, approximately 6-7 inches long.
- Cook Naan: Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Place one rolled-out dough oval onto the hot skillet and cook for about 2 minutes or until bubbles begin to form on the surface. Flip the naan and cook the other side for an additional 1 minute until golden brown spots appear.
- Brush with Garlic Butter: While the naan is still warm, brush each piece generously with the melted butter mixed with minced garlic to infuse a rich garlic flavor. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For extra softness, you can replace warm water with warm milk when activating the yeast.
- If you do not have yogurt, buttermilk can be used as a substitute for tender naan.
- Ghee adds a richer flavor than oil, but either works well.
- Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the dough to achieve perfect bubbles and browning.
- Serve garlic naan warm with Indian curries, chutneys, or as a snack on its own.
- You can add chopped fresh cilantro or nigella seeds on top before cooking for added flavor.
