about contact

Homemade Naan Bread

by
Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Short Description

Homemade naan bread is a soft, pillowy, and slightly chewy Indian flatbread that’s perfect for scooping up curries, dips, or spreads. Cooked in a hot skillet, this naan develops beautiful golden-brown bubbles and a deliciously charred flavor. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients and tastes far better than store-bought versions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Soft and fluffy texture – Perfectly tender with a slight chew.
  • Easy to make – No special equipment needed, just a pan and a rolling pin.
  • Authentic flavor – Lightly charred, buttery, and restaurant-quality.
  • Versatile – Enjoy it with curries, dips, wraps, or even as a pizza base.
  • Customizable – Add garlic, herbs, or cheese for extra flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • All-purpose flour
  • Yeast (instant or active dry)
  • Sugar
  • Warm water
  • Plain yogurt
  • Milk
  • Salt
  • Olive oil or melted butter
  • Garlic (optional, for garlic naan)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

this recipe
  1. Activate the yeast – Mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the dough – In a bowl, combine flour, salt, yogurt, milk, and yeast mixture. Knead until smooth and elastic (about 8 minutes).
  3. Let it rise – Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
  4. Divide and roll – Punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions. Roll each piece into an oval shape.
  5. Cook the naan – Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each piece for 1-2 minutes per side until golden and bubbly.
  6. Brush with butter – Immediately brush with melted butter or garlic butter. Sprinkle with fresh herbs if desired.
  7. Serve warm – Enjoy with curries, dips, or as a side to your favorite meals.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: Makes about 8 naan breads
  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Rise time: 1-2 hours
  • Cook time: 15 minutes
  • Total time: About 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

  • Garlic naan – Brush with garlic butter and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
  • Cheese naan – Stuff with shredded cheese before rolling and cooking.
  • Whole wheat naan – Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
  • Vegan naan – Use dairy-free yogurt and milk, and replace butter with olive oil.
  • Spicy naan – Add red pepper flakes or chili powder to the dough.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store naan in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze cooked naan for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.
  • Reheating: Warm in a dry skillet over medium heat or microwave for 20 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make naan without yeast?

Yes! Use baking powder and baking soda as a substitute, though the texture will be slightly different.

What’s the best flour for naan?

All-purpose flour works best, but bread flour can add extra chewiness.

Can I bake naan instead of cooking it in a pan?

Yes, bake at 500°F (260°C) for 3-5 minutes on a hot baking stone or sheet.

Why is my naan tough?

Over-kneading or using too much flour can make naan dense. Keep the dough soft and slightly sticky.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but it will make the naan slightly denser. Try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.

How do I get big bubbles in naan?

Cook on high heat and don’t press down while cooking. This helps create air pockets.

What can I serve with naan?

It pairs well with curries, hummus, tzatziki, kebabs, or even as a sandwich wrap.

How do I make naan extra soft?

Adding a little extra yogurt or brushing with butter after cooking helps keep it soft.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Store the dough in the fridge for up to 24 hours before rolling and cooking.

Can I cook naan on a grill?

Yes! Grill over medium-high heat for about 1 minute per side for a smoky flavor.

Conclusion

Homemade naan bread is easy, delicious, and far better than store-bought versions. Whether you enjoy it plain, garlicky, or stuffed with cheese, this versatile flatbread is perfect for any meal. Try it today and bring authentic flavors to your kitchen!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Homemade Naan Bread

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Chill Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 naan breads 1x
  • Category: Bread, Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian, Middle Eastern
Print Recipe

Description

This Homemade Naan Bread is soft, fluffy, and slightly chewy with a beautiful golden-brown exterior. Made with simple ingredients, this traditional Indian flatbread is perfect for scooping up curries, dipping in hummus, or enjoying with butter and garlic. You can make it on the stovetop or in the oven for a fresh, warm bread that beats store-bought naan every time!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 3/4 cup warm water (110°F or 45°C)
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or regular yogurt)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
  • 1 large egg (room temperature)

For Garlic Butter (Optional, for Brushing):

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  1. In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. (If using instant yeast, you can skip this step and mix everything together in Step 2.)

Step 2: Make the Dough

  1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
  2. Add yogurt, olive oil, egg, and activated yeast mixture.
  3. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a lightly floured surface for 6–8 minutes (or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 minutes) until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

  1. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Divide & Shape the Naan

  1. Punch down the dough and divide it into 6–8 equal pieces.
  2. Roll each piece into an oval or circle, about ¼-inch thick.

Step 5: Cook the Naan

  1. Heat a cast iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Cook each naan for 1–2 minutes on one side, until bubbles form. Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown and charred in spots.

Step 6: Brush with Garlic Butter & Serve

  1. Mix melted butter, garlic, and cilantro. Brush over warm naan.
  2. Serve immediately with curries, dips, or as a sandwich wrap!

Notes

  • No Yogurt? Use milk or sour cream instead.
  • Oven Option: Bake at 500°F (260°C) for 3–4 minutes on a pizza stone.
  • Make it Vegan: Use coconut yogurt and dairy-free butter.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container for 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star