Introduction

Garlic naan is a soft, fluffy flatbread enriched with the aromatic flavors of garlic and herbs. This artisan recipe brings authentic taste to your kitchen, making it perfect for pairing with Indian dishes, soups, or simply enjoying on its own. With a delightful balance of chewiness and crispness, this garlic naan is sure to become a favorite.

Overview of the Recipe

This recipe for garlic naan combines simple pantry ingredients with a few basic techniques to create a soft and flavorful bread. Infused with garlic in both the dough and the topping, this naan is cooked on a skillet for a charred, authentic finish. Ideal for meals or as a standalone treat, it’s versatile and satisfying.

History and Origin

Naan, a staple in South Asian cuisine, has its origins in the Persian word nā’n, meaning bread. It was traditionally baked in clay ovens called tandoors, which give the bread its characteristic smoky flavor and charred texture. Garlic naan, a modern variation, adds an extra layer of flavor with aromatic garlic and herbs, enhancing its appeal as a global favorite.

Ingredients

For the Naan Bread:

• 1/4 cup warm water
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry or instant yeast
• 3/4 cup warm milk
• 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or plain natural yogurt
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil, plus 2 tablespoons extra for cooking
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups all-purpose flour (560g), plus extra for dusting
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Garlic Butter Topping:

• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh cilantro or parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup warm water, 2 teaspoons sugar, and 1 1/2 teaspoons yeast.
2. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes bubbly and frothy. This step ensures the yeast is active.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
   • Activated yeast mixture
   • 3/4 cup warm milk
   • 3/4 cup yogurt
   • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
   • 2 cloves minced garlic.
4. Gradually add 4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt, mixing with a spoon or your hands until a dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

5. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.
6. Knead for 3-5 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

7. Lightly oil a clean bowl and place the kneaded dough inside.
8. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Shape the Naan

9. Punch down the dough to release air and divide it into 10 equal pieces.
10. Roll each piece into an oval or teardrop shape, about 1/4-inch thick, using a rolling pin. Dust with flour as needed to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Cook the Naan

11. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and lightly grease it with vegetable oil.
12. Place one rolled-out naan onto the hot skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbles form on the surface.
13. Flip the naan and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown spots appear.
14. Repeat with the remaining dough, greasing the skillet as necessary.

Step 7: Prepare the Garlic Butter Topping

15. In a small bowl, mix:
    • 3 tablespoons melted butter
    • 2 cloves minced garlic
    • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh cilantro or parsley.
16. Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the warm naan breads.

Serving Suggestions

• Pairings: Serve garlic naan alongside curries like butter chicken, palak paneer, or lentil dal.
• Snacks: Enjoy on its own or with a dipping sauce such as tzatziki, hummus, or a spicy chili sauce.
• Sandwich Wraps: Use as a base for wraps or fold over grilled meats and vegetables for a quick sandwich.

Variations of the Recipe

1. Cheese-Stuffed Naan: Add shredded mozzarella or paneer to the dough before rolling it out for a cheesy surprise.
2. Whole Wheat Naan: Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier, healthier option.
3. Herb-Infused Naan: Incorporate dried herbs like thyme or oregano into the dough for extra flavor.
4. Spicy Naan: Sprinkle red chili flakes into the garlic butter topping for a touch of heat.

Health Benefits Notes

• Probiotic Benefits: Yogurt in the dough provides probiotics, which support gut health.
• Energy Boost: The carbohydrates in naan make it a great source of energy.
• Customizable Nutrition: Substitute ingredients like whole wheat flour or low-fat yogurt for a healthier alternative.

FAQs

1. Can I make garlic naan ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the naan, cool them completely, and store in an airtight container. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

2. Can I freeze naan dough?

Absolutely. After the first rise, divide the dough into portions and freeze them individually. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before rolling and cooking.

3. What if I don’t have a skillet?

You can cook naan in a hot oven on a baking sheet or directly on a pizza stone for a similar effect.

4. Can I skip the garlic topping?

Yes, plain naan is just as delicious, or you can try other toppings like sesame seeds or za’atar.

5. What makes naan different from other flatbreads?

The combination of yogurt and yeast gives naan its soft texture and slightly tangy flavor, distinguishing it from simpler flatbreads like tortillas or pita.

Conclusion

Authentic artisan garlic naan is a versatile and flavorful bread that elevates any meal. With its soft texture, golden-brown char, and rich garlic butter topping, it’s the perfect complement to curries, dips, or your favorite spreads. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore the variations, this naan is sure to delight your taste buds. Try it today and bring the aroma of freshly baked naan to your kitchen!