Authentic Indian Naan Bread Recipe: A Step-by-step Guide

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons plain yogurt
2 tablespoons melted ghee (clarified butter), plus extra for brushing
1 cup warm water

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten egg, milk, yogurt, and melted ghee.
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry mixture, stirring to combine.
Gradually add the warm water to the mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rest in a warm place for about 2 hours until it doubles in size.
After the dough has risen, divide it into 10 equal parts and roll each part into a ball.
Preheat your oven to its highest setting and place a baking tray in the oven to heat up.
Roll each ball of dough out on a floured surface to form a flat, thin, oval shape.
Place the naan on the preheated baking tray and bake for about 2-3 minutes or until puffy and lightly browned.
Remove the naan from the oven and immediately brush it with melted ghee. Serve warm.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to combine the dry and wet ingredients.
Whisk - Used to mix the beaten egg, milk, yogurt, and melted ghee.
Baking Tray - A flat tray to place the rolled naan dough for baking.
Rolling Pin - Used to roll out the dough into thin oval shapes.
Greased Bowl - A bowl coated with oil or cooking spray to let the dough rise.
Damp Cloth - Placed over the bowl of dough to keep it moist while it rises.
Flour - Used for dusting surfaces and preventing the dough from sticking.
Oven - Preheated to the highest setting for baking the naan.

Recipe variations

Add minced garlic or chopped fresh herbs (such as cilantro, parsley, or dill) to the dough for added flavor.
Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend for a healthier or gluten-free version.
Try using different types of yogurt, such as Greek yogurt or flavored yogurt, to give the naan a unique taste.
Add spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, or chili powder to the dough for a spicier variation.
For a stuffed naan, roll the dough around a filling of your choice, such as cheese, minced meat, or mashed potatoes.
Brush the naan with melted garlic butter or sprinkle it with sesame seeds or nigella seeds before baking for added texture and flavor.
Make a vegan option by substituting the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg replacement and using non-dairy milk and yogurt.
Experiment with different toppings such as grated cheese, chopped onions, or chopped tomatoes before baking.
Grill the naan on a barbecue or stovetop griddle for a smoky flavor and charred marks.
Create a sweet version by adding sugar, cinnamon, or cardamom to the dough and serve it with honey or a sweet sauce.

Recipe overview

This classic recipe for Naan, a traditional Indian bread, is a delight for your taste buds. Expect a soft and fluffy bread with a beautiful golden brown glaze, thanks to the melted ghee that's brushed on it. The recipe involves creating a simple dough, letting it rise, and then baking to perfection in a hot oven. The result is a slightly sweet, slightly tangy, melt-in-your-mouth bread that's the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Plus, with ingredients you likely already have on hand, this recipe is easier than you might think. Whether you're serving it with curry or using it for a delicious homemade pizza, you'll love this versatile and scrumptious bread.

Common questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all or part of the all-purpose flour in this recipe. However, note that the texture and taste of the naan may be slightly different.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you're ready to make naan, take the dough out of the fridge, let it come to room temperature, and proceed with rolling and baking.
Can I freeze the naan? Yes, you can freeze the naan. After baking, let the naan cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw them at room temperature and reheat in a hot oven or on a stovetop skillet before serving.
Can I cook naan on a stovetop instead of baking? Yes, if you don't have an oven, you can cook naan on a stovetop. Heat a skillet or tawa over medium-high heat and cook the rolled naan on it. Flip it when bubbles start to form, then brush with ghee and cook until lightly browned on both sides.
Can I add garlic or other flavors to the naan? Yes, you can add garlic, herbs, or other flavors to the naan dough for variations. Simply mix the desired ingredients into the dough during the kneading process.

Serving dishes and utensils

Rolling Pin - Used to roll out the naan dough into thin, flat shapes.
Baking Tray - Used to place the naan on for baking in the oven.
Pastry Brush - Used to brush melted ghee onto the baked naan for added flavor and shine.
Greased Bowl - Used to rest and allow the dough to rise.
Damp Cloth - Placed over the greased bowl to cover and keep the dough moist while it rises.

Origin stories

Naan, a soft and pillowy flatbread, is a staple food in many parts of South and Central Asia, including India, Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, and the surrounding regions. Its origins are believed to date back over 2,000 years to the time of the Indian subcontinent's earliest civilizations. The Mughals, Persian-speaking invaders from Central Asia, who conquered India in the 16th century, are thought to have popularized the naan, making it a common feature in royal feasts. The traditional method of making naan involved slapping the dough onto the inside walls of a tandoor, a cylindrical clay or metal oven, and letting it bake to perfection. Today, naan has become a beloved part of global cuisine, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries, and is enjoyed in various forms with countless regional variations.

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.