Description
To truly appreciate this dish, it helps to understand what makes it unique compared to other flatbreads around the world. Naan is a leavened flatbread, which means it relies on an agent like yeast or baking powder to create air bubbles within the dough. This is what gives the bread its iconic thickness and pillowy texture, separating it entirely from unleavened alternatives like tortillas or traditional Indian rotis and chapatis.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- ½ cup warm milk
- ¼ cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Warm water (as needed)
For the Garlic Butter Filling
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or coriander
- Optional: ½ cup mozzarella or cheddar cheese (for stuffed version)
For Cooking
- Extra flour for dusting
- Butter or oil for brushing
Instructions
1. Make the dough
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- Add warm milk, yogurt, and oil.
- Knead into a soft dough, adding water if needed.
- Cover and let it rest for 1 hour until doubled.
2. Prepare garlic butter
- Mix melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped herbs.
- Set aside.
3. Shape the naan
- Divide dough into equal balls.
- Roll each ball into a small circle.
- Add cheese in the center (optional), then seal and flatten gently.
4. Cook the naan
- Heat a pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place naan and cook 1–2 minutes until bubbles form.
- Flip and cook the other side until golden spots appear.
5. Add garlic butter
- Brush hot naan generously with garlic butter mixture.
- Sprinkle herbs on top.
6. Serve
- Serve warm with curry, soup, or dips.
Notes
For the best results, brush the naan with garlic butter immediately after cooking to keep it soft and flavorful. You can also customize it with cheese, chili flakes, or fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Bread / Side Dish
- Method: Pan-fry
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 naan
- Calories: ~260 kcal