The Best Easy Garlic Naan Bread Recipe
This easy garlic naan bread recipe brings the classic Indian flatbread to your kitchen with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Soft, fluffy, and infused with fragrant garlic butter and fresh herbs, these naans are perfect for accompanying curries, soups, or enjoyed on their own as a flavorful snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 package (0.25 oz) active dry yeast or instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
Garlic Butter Topping
- 3 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro or parsley
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine the yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let this mixture sit undisturbed for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active and ready to use.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the plain yogurt and oil (or ghee) to the dry ingredients. Pour in the activated yeast mixture, then knead everything together for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky.
- Allow the Dough to Rise: Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm place for approximately 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This rising process develops the flavors and texture of the naan.
- Shape the Naans: Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release excess air. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and roll each portion into a smooth ball. Then, using a rolling pin, roll each ball into an oval shape about 8 inches long.
- Cook the Naans: Heat a greased skillet over medium-high heat. Place one rolled-out naan on the hot skillet and cook for about 1 minute on each side, or until bubbles form on the surface and the naan turns golden brown with some charred spots. Repeat the process with all the naans.
- Final Touch: In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic with the melted butter. Brush this garlic butter mixture generously over the cooked naans. Sprinkle a pinch of salt on top, and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- If you prefer a more traditional smoky flavor, you can finish the naan by briefly placing it directly over a gas flame for a few seconds, using tongs to turn it carefully.
- Plain yogurt boosts dough tenderness; do not substitute with Greek yogurt as it may be too thick without thinning.
- Use ghee for a richer, authentic flavor instead of oil if available.
- You can substitute cilantro with fresh parsley if preferred.
- For a softer naan, cover cooked naans with a clean towel to keep them warm and moist until serving.
Keywords: garlic naan, Indian bread, easy naan recipe, homemade naan, garlic butter naan, flatbread, Indian cuisine, naan bread