Homemade Naan Bread

Homemade naan bread is a soft, pillowy, and slightly chewy Indian flatbread that’s perfect for scooping up curries, dips, or spreads. Cooked in a hot skillet, this naan develops beautiful golden-brown bubbles and a deliciously charred flavor. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients and tastes far better than store-bought versions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and fluffy texture – Perfectly tender with a slight chew.
• Easy to make – No special equipment needed, just a pan and a rolling pin.
• Authentic flavor – Lightly charred, buttery, and restaurant-quality.
• Versatile – Enjoy it with curries, dips, wraps, or even as a pizza base.
• Customizable – Add garlic, herbs, or cheese for extra flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Yeast (instant or active dry)
• Sugar
• Warm water
• Plain yogurt
• Milk
• Salt
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Garlic (optional, for garlic naan)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Activate the yeast – Mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the dough – In a bowl, combine flour, salt, yogurt, milk, and yeast mixture. Knead until smooth and elastic (about 8 minutes).
3. Let it rise – Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
4. Divide and roll – Punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions. Roll each piece into an oval shape.
5. Cook the naan – Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each piece for 1-2 minutes per side until golden and bubbly.
6. Brush with butter – Immediately brush with melted butter or garlic butter. Sprinkle with fresh herbs if desired.
7. Serve warm – Enjoy with curries, dips, or as a side to your favorite meals.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 8 naan breads
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Rise time: 1-2 hours
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: About 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Garlic naan – Brush with garlic butter and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
• Cheese naan – Stuff with shredded cheese before rolling and cooking.
• Whole wheat naan – Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• Vegan naan – Use dairy-free yogurt and milk, and replace butter with olive oil.
• Spicy naan – Add red pepper flakes or chili powder to the dough.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store naan in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked naan for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.
• Reheating: Warm in a dry skillet over medium heat or microwave for 20 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make naan without yeast?

Yes! Use baking powder and baking soda as a substitute, though the texture will be slightly different.

What’s the best flour for naan?

All-purpose flour works best, but bread flour can add extra chewiness.

Can I bake naan instead of cooking it in a pan?

Yes, bake at 500°F (260°C) for 3-5 minutes on a hot baking stone or sheet.

Why is my naan tough?

Over-kneading or using too much flour can make naan dense. Keep the dough soft and slightly sticky.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but it will make the naan slightly denser. Try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.

How do I get big bubbles in naan?

Cook on high heat and don’t press down while cooking. This helps create air pockets.

What can I serve with naan?

It pairs well with curries, hummus, tzatziki, kebabs, or even as a sandwich wrap.

How do I make naan extra soft?

Adding a little extra yogurt or brushing with butter after cooking helps keep it soft.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Store the dough in the fridge for up to 24 hours before rolling and cooking.

Can I cook naan on a grill?

Yes! Grill over medium-high heat for about 1 minute per side for a smoky flavor.

Conclusion

Homemade naan bread is easy, delicious, and far better than store-bought versions. Whether you enjoy it plain, garlicky, or stuffed with cheese, this versatile flatbread is perfect for any meal. Try it today and bring authentic flavors to your kitchen!

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