Garlic Naan is a soft, fluffy flatbread infused with the fragrant aroma of garlic and fresh herbs. This popular Indian bread is perfect for scooping up curries, daals, or simply enjoying on its own. Making naan at home is easier than you might think, and the results are far superior to store-bought versions. This recipe will guide you through the steps to create delicious, restaurant-quality garlic naan right in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Red chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the yogurt, warm water, and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Rest the Dough: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Shape the Naan
- Divide the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 6-8 equal portions.
- Shape the Dough: Roll each portion into a ball. Using a rolling pin, roll out each ball into an oval or round shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic with the melted butter.
Step 3: Cook the Naan
- Heat the Skillet: Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until very hot.
- Cook the Naan: Place one rolled-out dough onto the hot skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 1-2 minutes. Flip the naan and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Brush with Garlic Butter: Remove the naan from the skillet and immediately brush with the garlic butter. Repeat with the remaining dough.
Step 4: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the garlic naan with chopped parsley or cilantro and a pinch of red chili flakes if desired. Serve warm.
Cooking Notes
- Alternative Cooking Method: If you have a pizza stone, you can cook the naan in a preheated oven at 500°F (260°C) for about 2-3 minutes, or until it bubbles and browns.
- Garlic Options: For a milder garlic flavor, you can use roasted garlic instead of raw minced garlic.
- Yogurt Substitute: If you don’t have yogurt, you can use sour cream or buttermilk as a substitute.
Variations
Cheese-Stuffed Naan:
- Roll out the dough slightly thicker and place a small amount of grated cheese in the center before sealing and rolling out again. Cook as directed.
Herb Naan:
- Mix fresh or dried herbs such as basil, oregano, or thyme into the dough before rolling out.
Whole Wheat Naan:
- Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Hot Skillet: Ensure your skillet is very hot before cooking the naan to achieve the characteristic bubbles and texture.
- Resting the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest is crucial for developing the right texture, so don’t skip this step.
- Even Rolling: Roll the dough evenly to ensure uniform cooking. If some parts are thicker, they may not cook through properly.
Serving Suggestions
- Curries: Serve garlic naan alongside your favorite Indian curries, such as butter chicken, tikka masala, or paneer makhani.
- Dips: Use naan to scoop up dips like hummus, baba ganoush, or tzatziki.
- Wraps: Use naan as a wrap for grilled meats, vegetables, or falafel for a delicious sandwich alternative.
Making homemade garlic naan is a delightful culinary experience that brings the authentic flavors of Indian cuisine into your kitchen. With its soft, pillowy texture and savory garlic butter, this naan recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy it fresh off the skillet with your favorite dishes or simply on its own as a tasty snack. Happy cooking!
