Authentic Homemade Naan Bread Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup warm water
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Melted butter for brushing

Steps and instructions

  1. Dissolve sugar in warm water in a bowl. Sprinkle yeast over the top, and let it stand for about 10 minutes, until the yeast forms a creamy foam.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, yogurt, and olive oil. Mix the ingredients together until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 2-3 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a moist cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours.
  4. Preheat your grill or stovetop griddle over medium-high heat.
  5. Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin circle or teardrop shape.
  6. Place the naan on the preheated grill or griddle, and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the bread puffs up and you see golden brown spots on the surface. Flip and cook the other side for 1-2 minutes.
  7. Brush the naan with melted butter, and serve warm.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Whole wheat naan: Substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
  • Garlic naan: Mix minced garlic with melted butter and brush it on top of the naan before cooking.
  • Cheese naan: Sprinkle shredded cheese such as mozzarella or cheddar on top of the rolled-out naan dough before cooking.
  • Herb naan: Add dried herbs like oregano, basil, or cilantro to the dough for a fragrant and flavorful twist.
  • Spiced naan: Incorporate spices like cumin, coriander, or chili powder into the dough to give the naan a savory kick.
  • Vegan naan: Substitute the yogurt with plant-based yogurt or coconut milk yogurt to make the naan dairy-free.
  • Gluten-free naan: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make the naan suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

Recipe overview

Naan bread is a traditional Indian flatbread that's loved for its soft texture and versatile flavor. This recipe guides you through the process of making your own Naan at home from scratch. It's surprisingly simple, using basic ingredients like flour, yeast, and yogurt, and doesn't require any special equipment. In just a few steps, you'll mix and knead the dough, let it rise, and then cook it on a grill or stovetop griddle. You'll be rewarded with warm, pillow-soft Naan that's perfect for scooping up curry or munching on its own. Brush with butter for an added touch of decadence, and enjoy fresh from the heat for the best taste. Get ready to step into the world of homemade bread—it's a delicious journey!

Common questions

  1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast? Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast in this recipe. Simply use the same amount of instant yeast and follow the instructions accordingly.
  2. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the texture and taste of the naan may be slightly different compared to using all-purpose flour.
  3. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Just make sure to bring the dough to room temperature before dividing and cooking.
  4. Can I freeze the naan bread? Yes, you can freeze the naan bread. Allow the cooked naan to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
  5. Can I cook naan on a regular stovetop? Yes, you can cook naan on a regular stovetop griddle or cast-iron skillet. Preheat the griddle or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the naan as instructed in the recipe.
  6. What can I serve with naan bread? Naan bread is delicious on its own or served with various dishes such as curries, kebabs, or as a side to dips like hummus or tzatziki.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Rolling pin - Used to roll out the naan dough into thin circles or teardrop shapes.
  • Grill or stovetop griddle - Used to cook the naan bread and achieve those signature golden brown spots.
  • Basting brush - Used to brush melted butter onto the cooked naan for added flavor.
  • Bowl - Used to dissolve sugar, yeast, and mix the dough ingredients.
  • Moist cloth - Used to cover the dough while it rises.
  • Oiled bowl - Used to hold and let the dough rise during the fermentation process.

Origin stories

Naan bread has a long and storied history, dating back to 1300 AD in the Indian subcontinent. Originally, it was a staple in the royal court of Delhi. The bread, famed for its soft and fluffy texture, was cooked in tandoor ovens, a type of traditional clay oven used in many parts of Asia. The word 'naan' actually means 'bread' in Persian, showing its widespread use across the region. Interestingly, traditional naan has a teardrop shape which is a result of it being slapped on the hot inner wall of a tandoor. This delicious bread has survived the test of time and is now enjoyed in diverse forms around the globe, a testament to its enduring appeal and delectable taste.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.