Easy Naan Bread -

Naan bread is a staple in many South Asian cuisines, known for its fluffy texture and delightful flavor. This recipe presents an easy way to prepare homemade naan that rivals your favorite Indian restaurant’s offerings. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy warm, soft naan straight from your kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Easy Naan Bread recipe is not only straightforward but also incredibly versatile. Whether you serve it alongside your favorite curry, use it as a wrap for sandwiches, or slather it with garlic butter for a tasty snack, naan is sure to impress. The addition of yogurt gives it a rich flavor and tender texture, while the optional seeds add a delightful crunch. Plus, making naan at home allows you to customize it to your liking, ensuring that every bite is just as you want it.

Introduction

Naan bread has a rich history, originating from the Indian subcontinent. Traditionally cooked in a tandoor oven, naan has become a beloved bread worldwide, often served in Indian restaurants. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to create restaurant-quality naan in your own kitchen. With just a little patience and some basic ingredients, you can whip up this delectable bread that will elevate any meal. Imagine the aroma of freshly baked naan wafting through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table.

Ingredients:

570g plain flour, plus extra for dusting
1 tsp sugar
1½ tsp baking powder
½-1 tsp strongly-flavored seeds, such as nigella or cumin seeds (optional)
2 tbsp melted butter
8 tbsp natural yogurt
Oil, for the bowl
2 garlic cloves, crushed
Small handful of coriander, finely chopped, plus extra to serve

Tip: To add seeds to the tops of the naans, whisk together 1 egg with 1 tbsp milk. Brush this egg wash over the uncooked naan, then sprinkle your chosen seeds over the top – nigella, cumin, poppy, or sesame seeds all work well. Alternatively, scatter the seeds over the uncooked naans and push them into the dough by rolling over the top with a rolling pin before cooking.

Preparation:

Step 1:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain flour, sugar, baking powder, and 1½ tsp salt. If you are using seeds, add them at this stage. Lightly whisk the dry ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed.

Step 2:
Add 1 tablespoon of the melted butter and the natural yogurt to the flour mixture. Using your hands, mix these ingredients together until they are well combined.

Step 3:
Gradually add water (180-200ml) to the mixture, 50ml at a time. Mix thoroughly after each addition until the dough starts to come together. The amount of water needed may vary depending on the consistency of the yogurt and butter, so stop adding when you have a cohesive ball of dough.

Step 4:
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Once kneaded, place the dough in an oiled mixing bowl, cover it with a tea towel, and let it rest for at least 1 hour. This resting period is crucial as it helps achieve a light and fluffy texture.

Step 5:
If you want to make garlic butter, mix the crushed garlic with the remaining tablespoon of melted butter and the finely chopped coriander in a small bowl and set it aside. After the resting period, divide the dough into eight, ten, or twelve equal pieces, depending on the size of naan you prefer. Roll each piece into a ball, then cover them with the tea towel again.

Step 6:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough ball into your desired shape—round, oval, or teardrop. Flip the dough over and roll it out again to achieve an even thickness.

Step 7:
Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat. Place the rolled-out dough into the pan and cook until it begins to puff up and the underside is golden brown. Flip the naan and cook the other side until it is also browned. Remove the cooked naan from the pan and brush it with the garlic butter mixture, if desired. Sprinkle with extra coriander, if you like, and cover with a tea towel to keep warm while you repeat the process with the remaining dough balls.

COOKING Rating:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Serving Suggestions:

Naan bread is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:

Pair it with classic Indian dishes like Butter Chicken, Tikka Masala, or Palak Paneer for a complete meal.
Use it as a base for wraps, filling it with grilled meats, vegetables, and your favorite sauces.
Enjoy it as a standalone snack by dipping it in hummus, tzatziki, or your favorite chutney.
Create a delicious breakfast by topping it with scrambled eggs, avocado, or smoked salmon.

Tips:

Ensure that your yogurt is at room temperature for better incorporation into the dough.
Feel free to experiment with flavored oils, such as garlic or herb-infused oil, to brush on the naan after cooking.
If you prefer a slightly charred flavor, you can grill the naan on an outdoor grill instead of using a frying pan.
Store any leftover naan in an airtight container; it can be reheated in a microwave or on a skillet.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including resting time)

Nutritional Information (per naan):
Calories: 180
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 150mg

Conclusion

Making your own naan bread at home is an incredibly satisfying experience that brings the flavors of India right to your kitchen. This Easy Naan Bread recipe is a perfect introduction to bread-making, providing you with a soft, fluffy result that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Whether you’re serving it with a hearty curry or enjoying it plain with a bit of garlic butter, this naan is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Questions and Answers About This Recipe

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of plain flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the naan may be denser. You might want to adjust the water content as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.
What can I substitute for yogurt if I don’t have any?
You can substitute yogurt with buttermilk or a non-dairy yogurt alternative if you want to keep the recipe dairy-free.
Can I freeze the naan after cooking?
Absolutely! Once cooled, you can wrap the naan in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw and warm it in a skillet or microwave.
Is it necessary to let the dough rest?
Yes, resting the dough is crucial as it allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a softer, fluffier naan.
How can I make my naan more flavorful?
You can add herbs and spices to the dough, such as garlic powder, dried herbs, or even finely chopped spinach for added flavor and nutrition.