Naan Bread Easy Recipe

There's nothing quite like warm, pillowy naan bread fresh off the skillet. With its golden, slightly charred spots and soft, chewy texture, this homemade version rivals anything you'd find in a restaurant.

I first tried making naan at home when I realized how easy and rewarding it is to prepare from scratch. What started as an experiment quickly became a household favorite, perfect for scooping up curries, wrapping around grilled meats, or enjoying on its own with a smear of butter and garlic.

Why You'll Love This Naan Bread Recipe

This easy naan recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Here’s why:

First, it’s incredibly simple to make with just a handful of pantry staples. No special equipment or baking skills required!

It’s also quick compared to traditional bread-making. With just one short rise, you can have warm, fluffy naan in under an hour.

Not only that, but it’s super versatile—serve it with Indian dishes, use it for wraps, or even turn it into a quick flatbread pizza.

And finally, making naan at home is budget-friendly compared to store-bought versions, plus you can customize it with garlic, herbs, or even cheese!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why they matter:

Flour – All-purpose flour works perfectly for this naan, providing just the right balance of softness and chewiness. If you prefer a heartier texture, you can swap in some whole wheat flour.

Yeast – We use instant yeast to speed up the rising process, making this recipe quick and foolproof. If you only have active dry yeast, be sure to dissolve it in warm water first.

Yogurt – Plain yogurt is the secret to soft, slightly tangy naan. It also helps create the signature bubbly texture when the dough hits the hot skillet.

Milk – A splash of warm milk enhances the dough’s richness and tenderness. You can use dairy or non-dairy milk based on your preference.

Olive Oil or Butter – Brushing the naan with melted butter or olive oil after cooking adds a delicious finish. For extra flavor, try garlic butter or ghee!

A rolling pin and a heavy skillet (such as cast iron) are the only special tools you’ll need for perfectly cooked naan.

How To Make This Naan Bread

Making homemade naan is easier than you think. Follow these steps for perfect results:

Start by combining flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. Stir in the yogurt, warm milk, and a bit of oil to form a soft dough. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Cover the dough and let it rise for about 30-45 minutes, or until it doubles in size. Since we’re using instant yeast, the rise time is much shorter than traditional bread.

Once risen, divide the dough into equal portions and roll each into an oval or round shape, about ¼ inch thick. If the dough sticks, dust it lightly with flour.

Heat a cast-iron skillet or nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Place a naan on the hot pan and cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, until bubbles form and golden brown spots appear. Flip and repeat.

Brush the hot naan with butter or oil and sprinkle with optional toppings like garlic or cilantro. Serve warm and enjoy!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), you can store naan easily.

At room temperature, keep naan in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Warm it in a dry skillet for best results.

For longer storage, refrigerate naan in a sealed bag for up to 5 days. A quick reheat in the microwave or toaster brings it back to life.

To freeze, layer naan between parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a skillet or oven.

Variations and Substitutions

This naan recipe is a great base for creativity. Here are some fun variations:

Garlic Naan – Add minced garlic to the dough or brush the cooked naan with garlic butter.

Cheese Naan – Stuff shredded cheese between two rolled-out dough pieces before cooking.

Herb Naan – Mix chopped cilantro, parsley, or dried herbs into the dough for extra flavor.

Whole Wheat Naan – Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

Dairy-Free Naan – Use coconut yogurt and almond milk for a dairy-free alternative.

Feel free to experiment and find your favorite version of homemade naan!

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