Homemade Naan Bread Recipe – Soft and Fluffy

Homemade Naan Bread Recipe

Naan bread is a soft, fluffy flatbread that’s perfect for serving with Indian curries, stews, or even as a wrap for fillings. This easy homemade naan recipe uses simple ingredients and yields bread that’s beautifully charred, chewy, and tender. Once you make it at home, you’ll never want store-bought naan again!

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons melted butter, for brushing
• Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until foamy.
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, yogurt, and olive oil, and stir until a dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Once risen, divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then use a rolling pin to roll each ball into a thin oval or round shape.
5. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each naan for 1-2 minutes per side, or until bubbles form and the bread is charred in spots.
6. Brush each naan with melted butter and sprinkle with chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve warm.

Tips

For extra flavor, add minced garlic to the dough or brush with garlic butter after cooking. Naan can also be made on a grill for a more authentic smoky flavor.

FAQs

• Can I make naan ahead of time? Yes, you can make the dough ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
• Can I freeze cooked naan? Yes, naan freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet or oven.
• What can I serve with naan? Naan is perfect with curries, soups, or even as a wrap for grilled meat and vegetables.
• Can I make naan without yeast? Yes, you can use baking powder as a substitute for yeast, though the texture will be slightly different.

Conclusion

This homemade naan bread is soft, fluffy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it alongside your favorite curry or using it as a wrap, naan is versatile and easy to make. Enjoy this simple flatbread fresh and warm from your skillet for a truly authentic experience.