Craft your own soft and fluffy Homemade Naan Bread with this straightforward recipe, bringing the authentic flavors of Indian cuisine right into your kitchen. This naan is perfect for scooping up rich curries or as a warm, buttery side to any meal. Making naan at home allows you to customize it with additives like garlic or herbs, creating a personalized touch to this traditional bread.
Crafting the Perfect Naan at Home
Naan bread, with its distinctive soft texture and slight chewiness, is a favorite in many households. This recipe is ideal for those looking to replicate the classic Indian restaurant experience at home. Serve freshly made naan with your favorite dishes, and watch it disappear from the table!
- Preparation time: 1 hour 30 minutes (includes rising time)
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
- Serving: Makes 10-12 naan
- Equipment: Skillet, mixing bowls
Recipe: Homemade Naan Bread
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp sugar, divided
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp melted ghee or butter, plus more for brushing
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder or minced garlic (optional)
Directions:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar in warm water. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes until frothy, indicating that the yeast is active and ready.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking powder, and the remaining sugar. This dry mix will provide the structure for your naan.
- Form the Dough: Add the frothy yeast mixture, warm milk, yogurt, and 2 tablespoons of melted ghee or butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. This step develops the gluten, which gives naan its characteristic texture.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Naan: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 10-12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten and stretch each ball to form an oval shape.
- Cook the Naan: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Brush one side of each naan with water and place it watered-side down in the hot skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip the naan. Brush the flipped side with a little ghee or butter and cook until brown spots appear.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the naan from the skillet, brush with additional ghee or butter, and sprinkle with minced garlic or garlic powder if desired.
Ready to Enjoy
Your Homemade Naan Bread is now ready to serve and enjoy! Pair it with your favorite curries, use it as a wrap, or enjoy it as is to savor the delicious, buttery flavor. Fresh homemade naan not only enhances your meal but also brings a piece of traditional Indian culinary art to your dining table. Enjoy the process of making and sharing this delightful bread with loved ones.
