Garlic Naan

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Soft, buttery, and bursting with flavor, Garlic Naan is a warm and pillowy flatbread that’s perfect for scooping up your favorite curries, soups, or stews. Brushed with garlic-infused butter and scattered with fresh herbs, this homemade naan will make you skip the store-bought kind for good.

Whether you’re planning an Indian-themed dinner night or just craving a warm bread to pair with your next meal, this Garlic Naan delivers on all fronts. It’s surprisingly easy to make and incredibly satisfying to tear into while still warm from the skillet.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Naan

Homemade Garlic Naan is worlds apart from anything pre-packaged. It’s soft and chewy with golden charred spots and layers of buttery garlic flavor. It’s also super versatile—you can use it as a wrap, a pizza base, or simply as an irresistible side. Plus, making naan from scratch is far easier than it sounds, especially without needing a tandoor oven!

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Can I Make Garlic Naan Without a Tandoor?

Absolutely! While traditional naan is cooked in a tandoor (a clay oven), this version uses a hot skillet or cast-iron pan to achieve those same beautiful charred spots and soft texture. You’ll still get that authentic restaurant-style flavor right in your home kitchen.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Naan

Each ingredient in Garlic Naan plays a key role in achieving that fluffy, flavorful finish:

• All-Purpose Flour – This is the base of the dough, giving the naan its soft texture.
• Active Dry Yeast – Helps the dough rise and creates airiness in each bite.
• Sugar – Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness to the bread.
• Salt – Essential for flavor balance.
• Warm Water – Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough.
• Plain Yogurt – Adds tanginess and softness to the naan.
• Olive Oil or Ghee – Gives richness and helps with browning.
• Garlic – Minced garlic is mixed into butter for that signature flavor.
• Fresh Cilantro or Parsley – Sprinkled over the top for color and freshness.

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How To Make the Garlic Naan

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, yogurt, and yeast mixture. Knead until the dough becomes smooth and elastic—about 8–10 minutes. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Divide and Roll

Punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten into oval or tear-drop shapes using a rolling pin.

Step 4: Cook the Naan

Heat a skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Cook each naan for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown spots appear and it puffs slightly.

Step 5: Add Garlic Butter

While the naan is hot, brush it generously with melted butter mixed with minced garlic. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve warm.

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How to Serve and Store Garlic Naan

This Garlic Naan recipe makes about 6–8 flatbreads, easily serving 4–6 people depending on the meal. Serve it fresh and warm off the pan for the best texture.

To store, wrap in foil or place in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature, or up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet or oven. You can also freeze naan for up to a month—just thaw and warm before serving.

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What to Serve With Garlic Naan

1. Chicken Tikka Masala

The rich tomato cream sauce is perfect for scooping with naan.

2. Lentil Dal

A hearty, plant-based curry that’s full of comforting spices.

3. Butter Chicken

A classic pairing! The naan soaks up every drop of this velvety sauce.

4. Chana Masala

Chickpeas simmered in spices create a bold, satisfying vegetarian option.

5. Cucumber Raita

This cooling yogurt-based dip balances the heat of spicier dishes and complements the naan.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Garlic Naan gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum for best texture. Just note that the dough might be a bit more delicate.

2. Do I have to use yeast?

Yeast gives naan its signature fluffiness, but you can use baking powder and baking soda for a quicker version. The texture will be more like a flatbread than traditional naan.

3. Can I add cheese to the naan?

Definitely. Stuff your dough with shredded mozzarella before cooking to make cheesy garlic naan—it’s incredibly delicious.

4. How can I keep naan warm for a dinner party?

Wrap cooked naan in foil and keep it in a 200°F oven until ready to serve. This keeps it soft and warm without drying out.

5. Is Garlic Naan healthy?

Naan is more indulgent than whole wheat flatbreads, but you can make it healthier by using whole wheat flour or opting for low-fat yogurt. For more health-conscious food ideas, check out our Healthy Dinner Ideas collection.

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