Soft, pillowy, and brushed with fragrant garlic butter, this homemade Garlic Butter Naan is a must-try for every bread lover! Whether you’re pairing it with a rich curry or enjoying it on its own, this naan is full of flavor and easy to make at home. No need for a tandoor just a hot skillet and a few simple ingredients! Making your own naan from scratch is surprisingly simple, and the results are far better than store-bought. This recipe uses yogurt and warm milk to create a soft, tender texture while the garlic butter topping adds the perfect finishing touch. Serve it fresh and warm for the ultimate indulgence!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon sugar
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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½ teaspoon baking soda
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½ cup plain yogurt
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¾ cup warm milk
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2 tablespoons melted butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
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1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions:
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
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Add the yogurt and warm milk to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
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Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rest for 1 hour.
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Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces and roll each into an oval shape.
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Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brush it with olive oil.
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Cook each naan for 1-2 minutes on one side until bubbles form, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
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In a small bowl, mix melted butter with minced garlic. Brush over the warm naan.
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Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Rest Time: 1 hour | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 6 naans
The History of Naan Bread
Naan has been a part of Indian, Persian, and Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. The word “naan” is derived from the Persian word for bread, and its origins date back to ancient times when it was traditionally cooked in a tandoor oven. This clay oven gives naan its distinct charred and bubbly appearance, while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. Over time, naan became popular beyond its native regions, spreading to Western countries and evolving with different flavors, including garlic butter, cheese, and stuffed variations.
What Makes Garlic Butter Naan Special?
Unlike plain naan, Garlic Butter Naan is brushed with a mixture of melted butter and minced garlic, which enhances its flavor and aroma. The addition of garlic provides a robust, slightly sweet, and savory taste that complements the soft texture of the bread. The butter ensures that the naan remains moist and tender, making it a great side dish for a variety of Indian and non-Indian meals.
How to Cook Naan Without a Tandoor
Traditionally, naan is cooked in a tandoor oven, which allows it to develop a charred, smoky flavor. However, you don’t need a tandoor to make excellent naan at home. A hot cast-iron skillet or a non-stick pan works just as well. Cooking naan on high heat in a dry pan allows it to puff up and form beautiful golden-brown spots, replicating the tandoor effect. The key is to make sure your pan is very hot before adding the dough, which ensures even cooking and a soft, airy texture.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Naan
1. Use Yogurt for Softness
Adding yogurt to the dough helps create a soft and slightly tangy flavor. It also makes the dough more elastic and easier to roll out.
2. Resting the Dough is Essential
Letting the dough rest for at least an hour allows the gluten to develop, which results in a more pliable and airy naan.
3. High Heat is Key
A hot skillet or pan ensures that the naan cooks quickly and develops those signature bubbles and charred spots.
4. Don’t Skimp on the Garlic Butter
Brushing the naan with a generous amount of garlic butter while it’s still warm allows it to absorb all the flavors and stay moist.
5. Fresh Herbs for Extra Flavor
Garnishing with fresh cilantro or parsley adds a fresh contrast to the buttery richness of the naan.
Variations of Garlic Butter Naan
While classic Garlic Butter Naan is always a favorite, there are several variations you can try to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:
1. Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Naan
Adding shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar between layers of dough before cooking creates a gooey, cheesy filling.
2. Whole Wheat Garlic Naan
For a healthier alternative, replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrition.
3. Herbed Garlic Naan
Incorporating fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil into the dough gives the naan an aromatic twist.
4. Gluten-Free Garlic Naan
For those with gluten sensitivities, using a gluten-free flour blend can help recreate the naan texture without wheat.
Best Dishes to Serve with Garlic Butter Naan
Garlic Butter Naan pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some of the best options:
1. Curries and Gravies
Naan is perfect for scooping up rich and creamy curries like butter chicken, paneer tikka masala, or dal makhani.
2. Tandoori Meats and Kebabs
The buttery, garlicky flavor of naan complements the smoky flavors of tandoori chicken, lamb kebabs, and grilled seafood.
3. Soups and Stews
Instead of traditional bread, use Garlic Butter Naan to dip into hearty soups and stews for a delicious twist.
4. Dips and Spreads
Naan can be served as an appetizer with dips like hummus, tzatziki, or baba ganoush.
Storing and Reheating Naan
How to Store Leftover Naan
If you have leftover naan, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze it for up to two months.
How to Reheat Naan
- Oven: Wrap the naan in aluminum foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes.
- Stovetop: Heat a dry pan over medium heat and warm the naan for a few minutes on each side.
- Microwave: Place a damp paper towel over the naan and microwave for 20-30 seconds to keep it soft and moist.
Conclusion:
Garlic Butter Naan is a simple yet flavorful flatbread that brings warmth and richness to any meal. Whether served with classic Indian dishes, grilled meats, or soups, its soft texture and garlicky butter coating make it a favorite among food lovers. Making naan at home is easy and requires just a few ingredients, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality bread whenever you like. Try experimenting with different variations and flavors to make it your own, and enjoy the delicious, homemade goodness of freshly made naan!
