Homemade Naan Bread

Homemade naan bread is a delightful addition to any meal, bringing warmth and a touch of the exotic to your dinner table. Soft, pillowy, and perfect for scooping up your favorite curries or enjoying with a spread of hummus, this naan recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll be able to create this beloved flatbread right at home. Let’s dive into the details and make some homemade naan bread that will impress your family and friends!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

There’s something magical about homemade naan bread that makes it a favorite among people of all ages. Here are a few reasons why it’s a sure-fire hit:

• Soft and Fluffy: The texture of naan is unbeatable. It’s soft, fluffy, and just the right thickness for scooping up sauces.
• Versatile: Naan can be served with a variety of dishes, from Indian curries to Mediterranean spreads. It also makes a fantastic base for flatbread pizzas!
• Customizable: You can easily add herbs, spices, or toppings to cater to your taste preferences.

What to Buy

To create your delicious homemade naan bread, here’s what you’ll need:

• Active Dry Yeast: This is essential for making the naan rise. Be sure to check the expiration date!
• Granulated Sugar: Used to activate the yeast and add a hint of sweetness.
• Whole Milk: Warmed to help the yeast grow and give the bread a rich flavor.
• Plain Yogurt: This adds moisture and a subtle tanginess to the naan.
• Olive Oil: For richness and to keep the bread soft.
• Large Egg Yolk: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
• Salt: A crucial ingredient that enhances flavor.
• Unbleached All-Purpose Flour: The base for our dough. Be sure to scoop and level for accurate measurement.
• Butter: Melted and brushed on top for a delicious finish.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Before you begin, gather these essential kitchen tools:

• Mixing Bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
• Whisk: To mix the ingredients thoroughly.
• Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dough into flat circles.
• Cast Iron Skillet or Non-Stick Pan: Ideal for cooking the naan on the stovetop.
• Pastry Brush: For brushing melted butter on the naan.

Make Homemade Naan Bread: A Simple Method

Follow these straightforward steps to make your own homemade naan bread:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of warm water (110 – 115 degrees) with 1 1/2 teaspoons of active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a larger mixing bowl, combine the warmed whole milk, 1/3 cup of plain yogurt, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1 egg yolk. Mix well until combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of unbleached all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt.

Step 4: Make the Dough

Add the frothy yeast mixture to the wet ingredients, then gradually incorporate the dry flour mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 5: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.

Step 6: Let it Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 7: Shape the Naan

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 6-8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then use a rolling pin to flatten them into tear-shaped discs about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 8: Cook the Naan

Preheat your cast iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Place the rolled-out naan in the hot skillet and cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until bubbly and golden brown. Repeat with the remaining pieces.

Step 9: Brush with Butter

Remove the naan from the skillet and immediately brush with melted butter. Serve warm and enjoy!

Customize for Your Needs

Feel free to get creative with your homemade naan bread! Here are some ideas for customization:

• Garlic Naan: Add minced garlic to the dough or brush with garlic-infused butter before serving.
• Herbed Naan: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the dough for a fragrant twist.
• Cheese-Stuffed Naan: Add a dollop of your favorite cheese before sealing the dough to create a cheesy delight.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

Here are a few tips to ensure your homemade naan bread turns out perfectly:

• Make sure your yeast is fresh and active for the best rise.
• For a slightly smokier flavor, you can cook the naan on an open flame for a few seconds after cooking on the skillet.
• Don’t skip brushing the naan with butter; it adds a rich flavor that enhances the overall experience.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

If you want to prepare your naan bread in advance, here’s how:

• Dough Storage: After kneading, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
• Baked Naan Storage: Cooked naan can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave when ready to serve.

Handy Q&A

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser. A mix of both flours works well too!

What if my naan doesn’t puff up?

This can happen if the skillet isn’t hot enough or if the dough hasn’t risen properly. Ensure your skillet is preheated and give the dough enough time to rise.

Can I freeze naan bread?

Absolutely! Place cooked naan in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in a skillet.

What can I serve with homemade naan bread?

Naan is delicious with dishes like Chicken Korma, lentil soup, or simply spread with hummus or tzatziki for a tasty appetizer!

You Might Also Like

• Garlic Herb Focaccia – Another delightful bread recipe that’s sure to please.

Wrap-Up

Making homemade naan bread is not only satisfying but also a rewarding experience that brings a taste of comfort to your dining table. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create fluffy, warm naan that will pair beautifully with your favorite dishes. Whether you enjoy it plain or with delicious toppings, this homemade naan bread is bound to become a beloved part of your culinary repertoire. Happy baking!