Description
This homemade naan bread is soft, pillowy, and perfect for accompanying your favorite curries or enjoying on its own. With a slight chew and characteristic bubbles, it’s a delightful addition to any meal.
Ingredients
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- 2 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup warm water (110°F or 45°C)
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or ghee (for brushing)
- Optional: minced garlic, chopped cilantro, or nigella seeds for topping
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
- Add the yogurt and vegetable oil to the yeast mixture, stirring to combine.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the flour mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 6-8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides.
- Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Naan:
- Punch down the risen dough to release air.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a ball.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out each ball into an oval or teardrop shape, approximately ¼-inch thick.
- Cook the Naan:
- Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until very hot.
- Place one rolled-out dough piece onto the hot skillet.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbles form on the surface and the bottom has golden brown spots.
- Flip and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from the skillet and brush with melted butter or ghee.
- If desired, sprinkle with minced garlic, chopped cilantro, or nigella seeds while the naan is still warm.
- Repeat with the remaining dough pieces.
Notes
- For a garlic naan variation, mix minced garlic into the melted butter or ghee before brushing.
- Naan is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 naan
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg