Ever craved that perfect, pillowy naan to accompany your favorite curry? This garlic naan bread recipe is just what you need. It’s made fresh at home, and the aroma of garlic and herbs will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or simply indulging in a cozy meal, this naan is a must-have.
This naan is not just any flatbread; it’s soft, chewy, and packed with flavor. The addition of garlic and fresh cilantro elevates it, creating a delightful complement to any dish. And the best part? You can whip it up with simple ingredients in no time, without needing a tandoor oven.
Discovering Garlic Naan Bread
Garlic naan bread stands out as a staple in Indian cuisine, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. When freshly made, it delivers a warm, soft bite, perfect for pairing with rich curries or savoring on its own.
The combination of garlic and fresh cilantro not only enhances the flavor but also adds an aromatic touch that captivates the senses. Each piece is slightly crispy on the outside, giving way to a fluffy interior that makes it an ideal accompaniment for any meal.
Crafting the Dough
Creating the perfect garlic naan begins with assembling the right ingredients. All-purpose flour serves as the base, combined with a bit of sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda to add fluffiness.
Incorporating yogurt and warm water into the mix results in a dough that’s both tender and pliable. This dough needs to be kneaded thoroughly, allowing gluten to develop, which contributes to the naan’s delightful chewiness.
Resting and Shaping
Once the dough is prepared, it requires some rest. Covering it with a damp cloth allows the dough to rise, enriching its texture. After about an hour, it’s time to divide the dough into equal portions.
Each portion is rolled into a teardrop shape, which not only provides a classic naan appearance but also aids in even cooking. This step is essential for achieving that authentic look and feel.
Cooking to Perfection
Cooking naan can be accomplished effortlessly in a skillet. Preheating ensures a nice sear, allowing the naan to puff up beautifully. Watching the surface for bubbling is key; this indicates that it’s ready to flip.
For those seeking an extra touch, gently pressing down with a spatula during cooking can enhance browning and texture. The result is a naan that’s slightly charred on the exterior, adding depth to its flavor.
Finishing Touches
To take garlic naan to the next level, brushing it with melted butter right after cooking is a must. This not only adds richness but also creates a shiny, appealing appearance.
Sprinkling minced garlic and fresh cilantro on top just before serving elevates the dish further, making it impossible to resist. The aromatic blend will have everyone reaching for another piece.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic naan is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Whether it’s a hearty curry, a spicy dal, or even a simple chutney, it complements any meal beautifully.
Enjoying freshly made naan while still warm creates a comforting experience, making it a favorite at any table. Its presence transforms an ordinary dinner into something memorable, inviting everyone to indulge.
The Perfect Garlic Naan Bread
This garlic naan bread is a warm, soft, and aromatic flatbread, infused with garlic and topped with fresh herbs. It’s slightly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, making it the perfect vehicle for scooping up sauces or enjoying on its own.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Butter for brushing
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Add yogurt, warm water, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 1 hour.
- Divide and Roll: After resting, divide the dough into equal portions. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten it out with a rolling pin into a teardrop shape.
- Cook the Naan: Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Place the rolled naan in the skillet and cook until bubbles form on the surface (about 1-2 minutes). Flip and cook the other side. Optionally, press down with a spatula for even cooking.
- Add Garlic and Herbs: Brush the cooked naan with melted butter and sprinkle minced garlic and chopped cilantro on top. Cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the skillet and keep warm in a towel. Repeat with remaining dough and serve with your favorite dishes.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rest Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Servings: 6 pieces
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 28g