This naan bread is soft, fluffy, and super easy to make. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have delicious flatbreads ready in no time!
You can enjoy them fresh with your favorite dips or even make mini pizzas! I love how they puff up while cooking—it’s like magic! 🪄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is essential for the naan’s structure, but you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier twist, though the texture may be denser.
Instant Yeast: It’s great for quick rises. If you only have active dry yeast, use it but let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes to activate it before adding to the flour.
Plain Yogurt: This adds moisture and a touch of tanginess. If you’re non-dairy, you can substitute with almond or coconut yogurt to keep it creamy.
Vegetable Oil or Melted Butter: Either works well! I personally prefer melted butter for extra richness, but olive oil is a great healthy option too.
What’s the Best Way to Knead Dough? It’s Easier Than You Think!
Kneading is vital for developing the gluten that gives naan its chewiness. Here’s how to do it properly:
- On a floured surface, push the dough away from you with the heel of your hand.
- Then fold it back over itself and give it a quarter turn. Repeat this for about 5-7 minutes.
- If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour while kneading.
This process helps your naan achieve that perfect fluffy texture!
Quick and Easy Homemade Naan Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter, plus extra for cooking
- Optional: minced garlic, chopped cilantro, or nigella seeds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep, 1 hour for the dough to rise, and around 2-3 minutes for cooking each piece of naan. So, in about 1 hour and 15 minutes, you’ll have delicious homemade naan ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
Start by taking a large bowl and mixing together the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. It’s important to combine these dry ingredients well so the yeast can work its magic later!
2. Combine with Wet Ingredients:
Add the warm water, yogurt, and vegetable oil (or melted butter) to the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir everything together until a dough begins to form. You want it to come together nicely without being too sticky.
3. Knead the Dough:
Next, lightly flour a clean surface and knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes. You’re aiming for a smooth and elastic dough. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
4. Let It Rise:
Now, place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. This is when it gets all fluffy and wonderful!
5. Shape the Naan:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into 6 equal portions and roll each portion into a ball. This is your naan ready to be shaped!
6. Preheat Your Skillet:
Get a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan and heat it over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough that the naan cooks quickly but not so hot that it burns.
7. Roll It Out:
On a floured surface, roll out one ball of dough into a teardrop or oval shape, about 1/4 inch thick. This is where you can get creative with the shape!
8. Add Any Extras:
If you want to jazz it up, brush the top side lightly with water and sprinkle with minced garlic, chopped cilantro, or nigella seeds. This is totally optional but adds extra flavor!
9. Cook the Naan:
Carefully place the rolled naan into the hot skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until you see bubbles forming and the bottom is lightly golden brown. Then flip it over and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side.
10. Brush with Butter:
Once the naan is cooked to perfection, remove it from the skillet and brush the top with melted butter if you’d like. This makes it extra tasty!
11. Repeat and Serve:
Repeat the cooking process with the remaining pieces of dough. Serve your naan warm with your favorite dips or curries, and enjoy the deliciousness!
12. Enjoy!
Your homemade naan is ready to be devoured. It’s fluffy, warm, and perfect for soaking up all the yummy flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions about Homemade Naan Bread
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can! Whole wheat flour will give your naan a nuttier flavor and a denser texture. You may need to adjust the water slightly, as whole wheat absorbs more moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Yogurt?
If you’re out of yogurt or prefer a non-dairy option, try using unsweetened almond or coconut yogurt. You can also use buttermilk or sour cream for a similar effect!
How Should I Store Leftover Naan?
Store any leftover naan in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the naan; just make sure to separate them with parchment paper before placing them in a freezer-safe bag!
Can I Make Naan Without Yeast?
Absolutely! You can try using baking powder instead. For this recipe, you’d typically use about 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder in place of yeast. The texture will be different but still delicious!