Homemade Garlic Naan Recipe: Soft, Buttery, and Flavorful

Discover how to make homemade garlic naan, a soft and buttery Indian flatbread that’s perfect for pairing with your favorite curries, soups, or simply enjoying on its own. With this step-by-step recipe, you’ll have delicious garlic naan ready in no time, bringing the authentic flavors of Indian cuisine straight to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Garlic Naan Recipe

• Authentic Taste: Get the flavors of restaurant-style naan with simple, pantry-staple ingredients.
• Versatile Pairing: Perfect for scooping up hearty curries, dipping in hummus, or enjoying as a snack.
• Easy to Make: No tandoor oven required! This recipe is designed for stovetop cooking.

Ingredients for Homemade Garlic Naan

• 1 cup warm water
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 and 1/4 tsp dry active yeast (1 packet)
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup Greek yogurt
• Extra 1-2 tsp of water (if needed for dough consistency)
• 2-3 tsp butter (for brushing)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, minced

How to make Homemade Garlic Naan

1. Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready.

2. Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Mix well.
2. Add the activated yeast mixture, olive oil, and Greek yogurt to the flour. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough feels dry, add 1-2 tsp of water as needed.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.

3. Shape the Naan

1. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal portions.
2. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into an oval or round shape about 1/4-inch thick.

4. Cook the Garlic Naan

1. Heat a cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
2. Place the rolled dough onto the hot skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until bubbles form on the surface and the bottom is golden brown.
3. Flip and cook the other side for 1-2 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and brush with melted butter mixed with minced garlic and fresh cilantro.

Pro Tips for Perfect Garlic Naan

1. Cover Immediately: After cooking, place naan in a clean kitchen towel or foil to trap steam, keeping it soft and warm.
2. Brush with Butter: The melted butter not only adds flavor but also prevents the bread from drying out.
3. Reheat Properly: Warm naan on a skillet or in the oven, and avoid microwaving, which can make it rubbery.
4. Warm Water: Ensure the water is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly.
5. Rest Time: Allow the dough to rise fully for a soft and airy texture.
6. Cooking Surface: Use a hot skillet or griddle for those signature charred spots.
7. Custom Flavors: Add crushed red pepper or Parmesan to the garlic butter for a twist.

Why Homemade Garlic Naan is Worth It

Making garlic naan at home allows you to customize it to your taste while ensuring fresh, high-quality ingredients. The soft, pillowy texture combined with the aromatic garlic butter topping makes it irresistible.

Naan Bread vs. Pita Bread

What’s the Difference?

Naan bread and pita bread are both popular flatbreads, but they differ in texture, ingredients, and use:

• Naan Bread: Traditionally made with yogurt and often includes eggs, making it softer and richer. It’s typically cooked with a butter or ghee glaze.
• Pita Bread: Leaner, with fewer ingredients, resulting in a drier texture. Its signature pocket forms when baked at high heat.

When to Use Each

• Use naan bread as a side for curries, grilled meats, or as a pizza base.
• Use pita bread for wraps, sandwiches, or stuffing with fillings like falafel or salads.

FAQs About Homemade Garlic Naan

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but the texture may be denser. Consider using a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for better results.

2. Can I freeze garlic naan?

Absolutely! Cooked naan can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat on a skillet or in the oven before serving.

3. What’s the best way to store leftover naan?

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best results.

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