Homemade Garlic Naan: Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp oil
1/2 cup plain yogurt
3/4 cup lukewarm water
2 cloves minced garlic
2 tbsp fresh chopped cilantro
2 tbsp melted butter

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
Add the oil and yogurt to the flour mixture. Mix until the mixture starts to look like crumbs.
Slowly add the lukewarm water to the mixture while kneading it into a soft dough.
Knead the dough for about five minutes, then cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for an hour.
After the dough has rested, divide it into eight equal parts and roll each part into a small ball.
Take each ball of dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a teardrop shape that is about 1/4 inch thick.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and brush it lightly with some of the melted butter. Place a piece of the rolled dough onto the skillet.
Cook the dough for about one minute, until it starts to puff up. Then flip it over and cook the other side for about one minute, or until it has brown spots.
Remove the naan from the skillet and brush it with the melted butter and sprinkle it with a little bit of the minced garlic and chopped cilantro. Repeat this process with the remaining dough balls.
Serve the garlic naan warm, on its own or with your favorite Indian dishes.

Tools for making

Mixing bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients.
Rolling pin - Used to roll out the dough into desired shape and thickness.
Skillet - A flat-bottomed pan used for cooking the naan.
Basting brush - Used to brush melted butter onto the cooked naan.
Damp cloth - Used to cover and rest the dough.
Flour sifter - Optional but helpful tool to sift the flour for a smoother dough.
Knife - Used for mincing garlic and chopping cilantro.

Recipe variations

Whole wheat naan: Replace half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
Cheese naan: Sprinkle some grated cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, on top of the naan before cooking it.
Herb naan: Add dried or fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the dough for an aromatic twist.
Spicy naan: Add finely chopped green chilies or red chili flakes to the dough for a spicy kick.
Garlic butter naan: Mix minced garlic directly into the melted butter and brush it on top of the cooked naan.
Onion naan: Finely chop some onions and press them into the rolled out naan dough before cooking.
Vegan naan: Replace the yogurt with plant-based yogurt or use a combination of almond milk and lemon juice as a yogurt substitute.
Gluten-free naan: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make the naan suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.

Recipe overview

Experience the delight of homemade Garlic Naan bread with this simple and delicious recipe. This soft and fluffy Indian-style bread is brushed with a savory garlic butter and speckled with fresh cilantro, making it the perfect side for your favorite Indian dishes or a tasty snack on its own. This recipe will guide you through the steps to mix, knead, and cook your own naan right on the stovetop. Expect a hands-on cooking experience with a rewarding and flavorful outcome. Enjoy the process and the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen as you make your own Garlic Naan.

Common questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture and taste of the naan may be slightly different.
Can I make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it? Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze the naan? Yes, you can freeze the cooked naan. Allow it to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt? Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for plain yogurt in this recipe. However, the texture and flavor of the naan may be slightly different.
Can I omit the garlic and cilantro? Yes, if you prefer plain naan without garlic and cilantro, you can omit them from the recipe.
Can I use a grill instead of a skillet? Yes, you can cook the naan on a grill instead of a skillet. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the naan for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until it has brown spots.

Serving dishes and utensils

Rolling pin - Used to roll out the dough into thin, teardrop-shaped naan.
Skillet - A flat, wide cooking pan used to cook the naan on the stovetop.
Brush - Used to lightly coat the skillet with melted butter before cooking the naan.
Bowl - A large bowl to mix and knead the dough.
Damp cloth - Used to cover the dough and keep it moist while it rests.
Flour - Used for dusting the rolling surface and preventing the dough from sticking.
Knife - To mince the garlic cloves.
Cutting board - To chop the fresh cilantro.
Spatula - Used to flip the naan while it is cooking in the skillet.

Origin stories

Naan, a type of Indian bread, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Its origin traces back to the time of the Mughal Empire in India, where it was a popular breakfast dish among the royals. The word "Naan" comes from the Persian word 'non' which refers to bread, and was originally cooked at the Imperial Court in Delhi. Interestingly, naan wasn't initially flavored; it was only in recent years that variations like the garlic naan were developed to adapt to the changing palate of the multicultural society in India. So, while you relish the soft and fluffy garlic naan, remember that you're savoring a piece of ancient culinary artistry that has survived the passage of time and continues to be a beloved part of Indian cuisine.

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.