“`html
If you crave the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread infused with garlic, this Garlic Naan Bread Recipe is about to become your kitchen favorite. Soft, pillowy, and generously brushed with garlicky butter, these naan breads are perfect for scooping up curries or just enjoying on their own. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or simply treat yourself, this recipe delivers that authentic Indian restaurant feel with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, wholesome ingredients come together effortlessly to create the perfect naan texture and flavor. Each component plays a crucial role—from the yeast that gives it rise, to the yogurt providing that tender, tangy softness. Let’s dive into what you’ll need:
- 1/4 cup warm water: Activates the yeast to give your dough a light, airy texture.
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast or instant yeast: The magic behind fluffiness and rise.
- 3/4 cup warm milk: Contributes to a soft crumb and rich flavor.
- 3/4 cup Greek yogurt or natural plain yogurt: Keeps the naan tender with a pleasant tang.
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil plus 2 tablespoons extra for cooking: Promotes moisture and a golden crust.
- 2 cloves garlic minced: Infuses the dough with subtle garlic warmth from within.
- 4 cups plain flour plus extra for dusting: Provides structure and the perfect chew.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Adds an extra lift for softness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors perfectly.
- 3 tablespoons melted butter for topping: Essential for that luscious finishing touch.
- 2 cloves garlic minced for topping: Packs the buttery glaze with bold garlic punch.
- 1 teaspoon fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh pop of color and flavor.
How to Make Garlic Naan Bread Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Start Your Dough
Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let this mixture rest for 5 to 10 minutes until it bubbles on top—this signals that your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic. This step is the foundation for wonderfully airy naan.
Step 2: Mix in the Milky Yogurt Blend
Add warm milk, yogurt, oil, and minced garlic to the yeast mixture. Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing everything together until the dough just starts to come together. The yogurt adds a lovely tang and keeps the bread tender, while the garlic in the dough starts infusing gentle flavor right away.
Step 3: Knead to Perfection
Turn the slightly sticky dough onto a floured surface and knead with floured hands for 3 to 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Kneading develops the gluten, which gives the naan that satisfying chew without toughness.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Lightly grease a bowl and place the dough inside, covering it with plastic wrap. Allow it to rest at room temperature for approximately an hour or until it doubles in size. This rest-time lets the yeast create those beautiful air pockets you’ll see in the final naan.
Step 5: Shape Your Naan
Divide the risen dough into 10 equal portions and roll each into a ball. Use a rolling pin to flatten each piece into an oval about 6 inches long and 1/8-inch thick. This shape and thinness help your naan cook evenly with that ideal soft texture and golden spots.
Step 6: Cook the Naan on a Hot Skillet
Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and brush it with a bit of oil. Cook each piece of naan until bubbles form on top (about 1 to 2 minutes), brushing the top with oil to encourage browning. Flip and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until beautiful golden spots appear underneath. Keep cooked naan wrapped in a warm towel for softness while you finish the batch.
Step 7: Brush with Garlic Butter Topping
Mix melted butter with minced garlic, then brush this fragrant garlic butter onto each warm naan. Sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a bright, herbal finish that brings the Garlic Naan Bread Recipe to life with every bite.
How to Serve Garlic Naan Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley add a burst of color and freshness to your garlic naan. For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt or toasted sesame seeds on top to enhance the texture and flavor layers.
Side Dishes
Garlic naan is a natural companion for rich, saucy dishes such as butter chicken, creamy paneer tikka masala, or spicy vegetable curry. It also pairs well with dips like raita or tangy chutney for a complete meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your naan warm and stacked in a rustic basket lined with a kitchen towel for a cozy, inviting feel. You can also cut it into smaller pieces for sharing or serve it alongside a hearty soup for an unexpected twist on comfort food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover garlic naan, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container to keep it soft. It’s best consumed within two days to enjoy maximum freshness and texture.
Freezing
Garlic naan freezes beautifully. Stack the naan pieces with parchment paper between them, then tuck them into a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge for easy reheating the next day.
Reheating
The best way to reheat naan is on a hot skillet for a minute on each side until warmed through and slightly crisp at the edges. You can also reheat in the oven wrapped in foil or use a toaster oven for quick results. Don’t forget a brush of garlic butter after reheating to freshen up the flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this Garlic Naan Bread Recipe without yeast?
You could try skipping the yeast and relying on baking powder alone, but you’ll lose some of the traditional texture and airy chew that yeast provides. The result will be denser, but still tasty.
What can I use instead of yogurt in this recipe?
If you don’t have yogurt, sour cream or buttermilk can be good substitutes as they contribute similar tenderness and slight tang. Avoid plain milk alone as it won’t give the same soft texture.
Is it possible to bake garlic naan in the oven instead of a skillet?
Yes! You can bake naan on a hot pizza stone or baking sheet at 500°F for about 4-6 minutes, but cooking on a skillet gives the signature charred spots and chewy texture that make garlic naan so special.
How do I know when my dough has risen enough?
Look for the dough to double in size and feel airy when gently pressed with a finger—it should leave an indentation. This ensures your naan will be soft and fluffy after cooking.
Can I add other flavors to this Garlic Naan Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! Add finely chopped herbs like rosemary or dill to the dough, or sprinkle nigella seeds on top before cooking for a delightful twist. Adjust garlic levels to your personal taste, too.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Naan Bread Recipe is such a joy to make and even more satisfying to eat. With its tender crumb, garlicky richness, and easy homemade steps, it’s an absolute must-try for anyone who loves authentic Indian flavors at home. Roll up your sleeves, get cozy in the kitchen, and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite naan!
“`
Print
Garlic Naan Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 10 naan breads
Description
Soft and fluffy Garlic Naan Breads perfect for pairing with curries. This easy recipe yields naan just as delicious as those from Indian restaurants, featuring a garlic butter topping for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Naan Breads
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast or instant, rapid rise
- 3/4 cup warm milk
- 3/4 cup Greek yogurt or natural plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil plus 2 tablespoons extra for cooking
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups plain flour plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
Garlic Butter Topping
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: Combine the warm water, granulated sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes bubbly on top, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make Dough: Add warm milk, yogurt, vegetable oil, minced garlic, plain flour, baking powder, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix with your hands until the dough comes together into a rough ball.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Using floured hands, knead the dough for 3 to 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Lightly grease a mixing bowl with cooking oil spray. Place the dough into the bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rest at room temperature for about 1 hour or until the dough doubles in size.
- Divide and Roll: Once risen, divide the dough into 10 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Using a rolling pin, roll each ball into a 6-inch long oval shape about 1/8-inch thick.
- Cook Naan: Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and lightly grease it with 1/2 teaspoon of vegetable oil. Place one naan on the skillet, brush the top lightly with oil, and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbles form on top.
- Flip and Cook: Flip the naan and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes until large golden brown spots appear. Remove from the skillet and wrap in a clean kitchen towel to keep warm. Repeat with remaining naan, keeping them wrapped as you go.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Topping: Mix melted butter and minced garlic in a bowl. Brush the warm naan breads generously with the garlic butter and sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the water and milk are warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- You can substitute plain yogurt with Greek yogurt for a thicker dough.
- Use a cast iron skillet for the best naan texture and even cooking.
- Keep cooked naan wrapped in a towel to retain softness and warmth.
- The garlic butter topping is best applied right before serving for maximum flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
