Naan Recipe

Imagine gathering with loved ones around a table laden with colorful spices, fresh herbs, and small bowls filled with chutneys. In the center, a warm stack of pillowy Naan breads, slightly charred and glistening with a buttery sheen, sets the scene for a delightful meal. Naan, a staple of many South Asian feasts, not only brings an exotic appeal to your table but also carries the essence of shared culinary traditions and family bonding. This Naan recipe is unique for its simplicity and authenticity, ensuring that whether it’s a festive occasion or a cozy family dinner, it’s worth every bite.

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours
• Servings: 8
• Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Fresh chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Add the warm water, yogurt, and olive oil. Stir until the dough comes together.
3. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
5. Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball.
6. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each ball into an oval or round shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
8. If using garlic, mix it with the melted butter. Brush the tops of the rolled-out dough with the melted butter (and garlic mixture).
9. Place the dough on the hot skillet, buttery side down. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until bubbles form.
10. Flip the Naan and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes, until golden spots appear.
11. Remove from the skillet and brush the tops with more melted butter. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, if desired.
12. Repeat with the remaining dough balls.

Helpful Tips

• Dough rising times may vary depending on the temperature of your kitchen. A warmer room will help the dough rise quicker.
• If you don’t have plain yogurt, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or even milk for a slightly different texture.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover Naan in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet or oven before serving.

Pairings

Naan pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Try serving it with classic Chicken Curry, Vegetable Biryani, Lentil Soup, or your favorite chutneys and dips. For drinks, a cool Mango Lassi or a refreshing Mint Lemonade would complement the meal perfectly.

At Zynahz, we believe that cooking should bring joy, creativity, and a sense of togetherness into your home. We hope this Naan recipe inspires you to gather your family around the table and share delightful moments. Share your results with Zynahz, and don’t forget to pass this recipe along to friends and family. Dive deeper into our recipe collection, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter for more inspirational dishes.