Garlic Naan

Garlic naan is a delightful bread that perfectly complements your favorite Indian dishes. Its soft, pillowy texture and robust garlic flavor make it an irresistible addition to curries, stews, or even enjoyed on its own. With a few simple ingredients and a method that’s both straightforward and rewarding, you can whip up this restaurant-quality naan right in your kitchen. Get ready to slather on some melted butter, sprinkle with fresh cilantro, and enjoy a warm piece of heaven.

The Upside of Garlic Naan

Garlic naan is not only delicious, but it also serves as a versatile accompaniment to various dishes. The unique flavor profile of garlic enhances any meal, while the soft texture makes it perfect for scooping up sauces and gravies. Plus, making naan at home allows you to customize it to your liking, from adjusting the garlic intensity to adding your favorite herbs. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it with a cozy night in, garlic naan will surely impress everyone at the table.

Ingredient Checklist

To make the perfect garlic naan, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 oz (7g) active dry yeast
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, plain
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 2 tablespoons cilantro leaves, chopped
• Oil, for greasing the skillet
• 4 tablespoons salted butter, melted

Equipment & Tools

Before you get started, make sure you have the following equipment and tools on hand:

• Mixing bowl – for combining ingredients.
• Rolling pin – to roll out the naan dough.
• Skillet or tawa – for cooking the naan.
• Pastry brush – to apply melted butter.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient measurements.
• Kitchen towel – to keep the naan warm after cooking.

Make Garlic Naan: A Simple Method

Ready to make some garlic naan? Follow these steps for a foolproof recipe.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture, Greek yogurt, and vegetable oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed. Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 4: Roll Out the Naan

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into equal portions (about 6-8 pieces). On a floured surface, roll each piece into an oval or teardrop shape, about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Cilantro

Sprinkle the minced garlic and chopped cilantro over the rolled-out dough and gently press them in with your rolling pin. This will ensure that the flavors are infused into the naan as it cooks.

Step 6: Cook the Naan

Heat a skillet or tawa over medium-high heat and lightly grease it with oil. Place the rolled naan onto the skillet and cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface. Flip the naan and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown and slightly charred. Repeat with the remaining pieces of dough.

Step 7: Brush with Butter

Once cooked, remove the naan from the skillet and immediately brush it with melted butter. This adds a rich flavor and keeps the naan soft. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

If you’re looking to make garlic naan a bit healthier, consider these tweaks:

• Whole wheat flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Low-fat yogurt: Use low-fat Greek yogurt to reduce calories while still maintaining creaminess.
• Herbs and spices: Add additional herbs like oregano or spices like cumin to enhance flavor without calories.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

Even experienced cooks can stumble when making garlic naan. Here are some common pitfalls:

• Not activating the yeast properly: Ensure the yeast is frothy before proceeding; otherwise, the naan won’t rise.
• Over-kneading: Knead just enough until the dough is smooth; too much kneading can make the naan tough.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture.
• Cooking at too high a temperature: Medium-high heat is ideal; too high can burn the naan before it cooks through.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

Planning to serve garlic naan at a special gathering? Here are a few tips to make ahead:

• Dough prep: You can prepare the naan dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
• Freezing: After rolling out the naan, place parchment paper between each piece and freeze. Cook from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
• Storage: Cooked naan can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven before serving.

Reader Q&A

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

Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that it might slightly change the texture and flavor.

How can I make garlic naan without yeast?

You can make a quick naan using baking powder instead of yeast. Use about 1 teaspoon of baking powder for every cup of flour, and follow the same method without the rising time.

Can I add cheese to my garlic naan?

Absolutely! You can sprinkle shredded cheese, such as mozzarella, over the naan before cooking for a cheesy garlic naan variation.

How do I store leftover garlic naan?

Store leftover naan in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just reheat before serving.

Explore these healthy-ish recipes that pair wonderfully with garlic naan:

See You at the Table

As you gather around the table with friends and family, garlic naan will undoubtedly be a star player in your meal. Its aromatic garlic flavor and soft texture will elevate any dish you serve it with. Now that you know how to make this delightful bread, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to savor every bite!