Easy Garlic Naan Bread

Experience the aroma of authentic Indian cuisine in your own kitchen with the Best Easy Garlic Naan Bread. This recipe delivers a soft, fluffy flatbread that is perfectly charred in a skillet and finished with a fragrant, buttery garlic coating. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned cook, this quick and simple method will become a favorite staple for your home-cooked meals.

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Making your own naan is surprisingly easy and far superior to store-bought versions. The combination of yogurt and yeast creates a tender interior, while the cast iron skillet provides those classic golden-brown spots. It's the perfect accompaniment for soaking up rich sauces and gravies.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 package (0.25 oz / 7 g) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 3 tablespoons minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

Step 2

Add flour, salt, yogurt, and oil (or ghee) to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.

Step 3

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 5

Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into an oval or tear-drop shape, about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 6

Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat.

Step 7

Place one naan in the hot skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown spots appear.

Step 8

Remove from the skillet and immediately brush with melted butter mixed with minced garlic.

Step 9

Repeat with remaining dough. Serve warm.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Ensure your skillet is properly preheated to medium-high heat before cooking; this ensures the bubbles form quickly and you get that characteristic char without drying out the bread. Using a damp cloth during the rising process keeps the dough from forming a crust.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a tangier flavor profile, swap the plain yogurt for Greek yogurt. If you want extra herb flavor, add freshly chopped cilantro to your garlic butter topping. For a vegan-friendly version, simply replace the yogurt and butter with your favorite plant-based alternatives.

Serviervorschläge

This naan is best served warm alongside a hearty curry or a bowl of dal. It also works beautifully as a wrap for grilled meats and fresh vegetables, or simply enjoyed on its own as a delicious appetizer.

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Once you taste this homemade garlic naan, you'll never want to go back to the store-bought variety. It is the ultimate comfort bread that elevates any meal with its buttery, garlicky goodness.

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes naan different from other flatbreads?

Naan typically contains yogurt which adds tenderness and slight tang, plus it's traditionally cooked in a tandoor oven. This skillet version recreates those signature bubbly spots and chewy texture using a hot cast iron pan.

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the dough and let it complete its first rise, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bring to room temperature before rolling and cooking for the best results.

→ Can I freeze leftover naan?

Yes, freeze cooled naan in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side or wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F oven.

→ What's the best way to serve garlic naan?

Serve immediately after brushing with garlic butter while still warm. It pairs wonderfully with butter chicken, lentil dal, or use as a wrap for grilled meats and vegetables. The bread also stands alone as a satisfying snack.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Simply replace the yogurt with dairy-free yogurt and use plant-based butter or oil for the garlic topping. The texture and flavor remain excellent with these substitutions.