Best Easy Garlic Naan Bread (Print Version)

Soft, fluffy Indian-style flatbread, garlic-infused and buttery. Ideal with curries, grilled meats, or solo. Quick and simple.

# Components:

→ Dough

01 - 3 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 package (0.25 oz / 7 g) active dry yeast
03 - 1 teaspoon sugar
04 - 1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
05 - 1 teaspoon salt
06 - 4 tablespoons plain yogurt
07 - 2 tablespoons oil or ghee

→ Garlic Butter Topping

08 - 3 tablespoons minced garlic
09 - 2 tablespoons melted butter

# Directions:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
02 - Add flour, salt, yogurt, and oil (or ghee) to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
03 - Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
04 - Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
05 - Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into an oval or tear-drop shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
06 - Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat.
07 - Place one naan in the hot skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface.
08 - Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown spots appear.
09 - Remove from the skillet and immediately brush with melted butter mixed with minced garlic. Repeat with remaining dough. Serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The yogurt creates an incredibly soft, pillowy texture that restaurant-style naan is known for
  • These come together faster than you think, and the warm dough is so satisfying to work with
  • You can customize the garlic butter with cilantro or even add cheese for extra indulgence
02 -
  • Do not let the dough rise longer than necessary, or it can develop a sour taste that will compete with your garlic butter
  • The skillet must be properly hot before adding the first piece, or you will end up with tough, flatbread instead of puffy naan
  • Roll the dough thinner than you think you need, because they will puff up substantially in the pan
03 -
  • Mix a handful of chopped fresh cilantro into your garlic butter for restaurant-style green naan
  • Press shredded mozzarella or paneer into the dough before cooking for cheese naan that melts and bubbles
  • Keep a small bowl of flour nearby while rolling to prevent sticking without adding too much extra flour
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