Introduction
Craving the warm, garlicky goodness of restaurant-style naan at home? This Garlic Naan Bread recipe delivers soft, pillowy flatbreads with a buttery garlic glaze—perfect for scooping up curries, dipping in hummus, or enjoying on their own!
Made with simple ingredients and cooked in minutes, this homemade naan is so much better than store-bought. No tandoor oven needed—just a stovetop or skillet!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Naan
- Authentic flavor – Blistered, buttery, and infused with garlic.
- Quick to make – Ready in under 2 hours (mostly hands-off rising time).
- No yeast? No problem! – Try the yogurt-based version (see FAQs).
- Versatile – Pair with Indian dishes, soups, or use for wraps.
- Freezer-friendly – Make a batch and reheat anytime.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Ingredients (Makes 6-8 naan)
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (or sub half whole wheat)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- ½ cup plain yogurt (or more milk for a lighter texture)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
For the Garlic Butter Topping:
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- Mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- In a bowl, whisk flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Add yeast mixture, yogurt, and oil. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
- Cover and let rise for 1-2 hours until doubled.
Step 3: Cook the Naan
- Divide dough into 6-8 balls. Roll each into a ¼-inch thick oval.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Cook naan for 1-2 minutes per side until puffed and charred in spots.
Step 4: Add Garlic Butter
- Mix melted butter and garlic. Brush over warm naan and sprinkle with cilantro.
Pro Tip: For extra puffiness, stretch the dough thin before cooking!
FAQs
Q: Can I make naan without yeast?
A: Yes! Use 1 tsp baking soda + 1 tbsp vinegar instead (no rise time needed).
Q: How do I get those big bubbles?
A: High heat and a lightly dampened dough surface help create steam pockets.
Q: Can I use a stand mixer?
A: Yes! Use the dough hook for kneading.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep in a towel-lined bag for 2 days or freeze for 1 month (reheat in a skillet).
Q: What if I don’t have yogurt?
A: Substitute sour cream or buttermilk (or use all milk).
Tips for the Best Naan
- Roll unevenly – Thicker edges create a chewy texture.
- Don’t overcook – Naan should stay soft, not crisp.
- Fresh garlic – Powder won’t give the same punch.
- Butter generously – Adds flavor and keeps naan pliable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Killing the yeast – Milk should be warm, not hot.
- Over-flouring the dough – Keeps it tender.
- Low skillet heat – Naan won’t puff properly.
Conclusion
This Garlic Naan Bread is a game-changer—soft, buttery, and bursting with garlic flavor. Whether you’re serving it with curry or enjoying it solo, it’s sure to disappear fast!
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Garlic Naan Bread: Soft, Buttery, and Irresistibly Fluffy
Description
Elevate your Indian feast with homemade garlic naan, a soft and flavorful flatbread that’s perfect for sopping up delicious curries or enjoying on its own. This easy recipe will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Mumbai.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup warm water
1/4 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons melted butter or ghee
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add warm water, plain yogurt, and melted butter or ghee. Mix until a dough forms.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rest for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
After the dough has risen, divide it into 6-8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
Roll out each dough ball into a thin circle or oval shape.
Place the rolled-out dough on the hot skillet or griddle. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until bubbles form and the naan is golden brown and slightly charred.
While the naan is still hot, brush it with melted butter or ghee and sprinkle minced garlic and chopped cilantro, if desired.
Serve the garlic naan warm with your favorite Indian dishes or enjoy it as a snack on its own.
