If you’ve ever had the pleasure of enjoying freshly baked naan at an Indian restaurant, you know how delightful it can be. This Simple Garlic Naan Recipe (Traditional Indian Bread) offers a way to recreate that deliciousness right in your own kitchen. Soft, fluffy, and infused with the aromatic flavors of garlic and cilantro, this naan is perfect for scooping up curries or simply enjoying on its own. Let’s dive into how you can make this delightful bread without any fuss!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Simple Garlic Naan Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of warm water and dried yeast creates a fluffy texture, while the garlic and cilantro add a burst of flavor that elevates the naan from simple to extraordinary. What makes this recipe even more appealing is that it requires no special equipment or ingredients, making it accessible for everyone, regardless of cooking skill. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices!

What Goes In

1 – 2 cups all-purpose flour (plain flour) – This forms the base of your naan. Adjust the amount based on how many pieces you want to make.
1 teaspoon dried instant yeast – This helps the dough rise and creates that lovely fluffy texture.
½ teaspoon table salt – Essential for flavoring the bread.
1 pinch sugar – This helps activate the yeast.
¾ cup warm water – The warmth is crucial for yeast activation.
3 tablespoons oil – This adds moisture and richness to the dough.
¼ cup salted butter – For brushing on top, enhancing the flavor and giving a nice shine.
2 teaspoons dried garlic flakes – For that classic garlic flavor in each bite.
2 teaspoons dried cilantro – Adds a fresh, herby touch.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Mixing bowl – To combine your ingredients.
Rolling pin – For flattening the dough into the traditional naan shape.
Cast iron skillet or non-stick pan – To cook the naan on the stovetop.
Spatula – For flipping the naan.
Small bowl – For mixing the garlic and butter.

Step-by-Step: Simple Garlic Naan Recipe (Traditional Indian Bread)

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and dried yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to go.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a larger mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the flour along with the oil. Mix everything together until a dough begins to form.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

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

Step 4: Let it Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, melt the salted butter and mix in the dried garlic flakes and dried cilantro. Set this aside for brushing on the naan after cooking.

Step 6: Shape the Naan

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into equal portions (about 4-6, depending on the size you prefer). Roll each portion into a ball, then use a rolling pin to flatten it into an oval or tear shape, about ¼ inch thick.

Step 7: Cook the Naan

Heat a cast iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place a piece of rolled naan in the skillet. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

Step 8: Brush with Garlic Butter

Once cooked, immediately brush the naan with the prepared garlic butter mixture. This not only adds flavor but also gives a lovely sheen to your naan.

Step 9: Repeat

Continue the process with the remaining portions of dough. Serve warm and enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Allergy-Friendly Swaps

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Vegan: Use dairy-free butter instead of salted butter and skip the yogurt if you choose to add it.
Low-Sodium: Use unsalted butter and reduce the salt in the dough.
Herb Variations: Swap dried cilantro with other herbs like parsley or chives for different flavor profiles.

Things That Go Wrong

Dense Naan: If your naan turns out dense, it may be due to insufficient kneading or under-proofing. Make sure to knead well and let it rise until doubled in size.
Sticky Dough: If your dough is too sticky, add a little more flour during kneading.
Burnt Naan: Keep an eye on the heat. If it’s too high, the naan will burn quickly. Adjust the heat as necessary.
Flavors Not Strong Enough: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and cilantro based on your taste preference.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

Fresh naan is always best enjoyed warm, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them in plastic wrap and freeze. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a skillet or microwave until warm.

Reader Q&A

Can I make naan without yeast?

Yes! You can use baking powder as a substitute for yeast. However, the texture will differ slightly, and the naan may not be as fluffy.

What can I serve with garlic naan?

Garlic naan pairs beautifully with various dishes, including curries, stews, and even grilled meats. It’s also great with dips like hummus or tzatziki.

Can I add other toppings to the naan?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with toppings like grated cheese, herbs, or even spices like cumin or chili flakes for an extra kick.

How do I know when the naan is cooked?

Your naan is ready when it puffs up and develops brown spots. A good visual indicator is that it should appear soft and fluffy, with a light golden hue.

Quick Weeknight Wins

Quick Chicken Curry – A simple, flavorful dish to pair with your naan.
Easy Chickpea Curry – A vegetarian option that is hearty and delicious.
Vegan Cream Curry – Perfect for a plant-based meal that complements garlic naan beautifully.
Easy Slow Cooker Beef Stew – Let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy warm naan alongside.

Wrap-Up

Making your own Simple Garlic Naan Recipe (Traditional Indian Bread) is not only rewarding but also a wonderful way to bring the taste of India into your home. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create fluffy, flavorful naan that is sure to impress. Whether you are serving it with a hearty curry or enjoying it with some butter and garlic, this naan is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and start baking! You won’t regret it.