Homemade naan bread is a delicious and versatile Indian flatbread that pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as curries, kebabs, and dips like hummus or tzatziki. Making naan at home is relatively simple, and the results are well worth the effort. Here’s a basic recipe for making homemade naan bread:
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 2/3 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons yogurt
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive oil)
For topping (optional):
- Fresh minced garlic
- Chopped cilantro leaves
- Butter or ghee for brushing
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Make a well in the center.
- Pour the activated yeast mixture, yogurt, and oil into the well of the dry ingredients. Mix everything together until it forms a shaggy dough.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky or a touch of water if it’s too dry.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rest in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat your oven to its highest temperature (usually around 500°F or 260°C) or use a pizza stone if you have one. If you have a cast-iron skillet or griddle, you can also use it on the stovetop.
- Divide the dough into equal-sized portions and roll each portion into a ball.
- Roll out each ball of dough into a thin oval or circle, about 1/4-inch thick.
- If you like, you can brush the tops of the naan with a bit of melted butter or ghee and sprinkle with minced garlic and chopped cilantro.
- Place the rolled-out naan directly onto the hot oven rack, pizza stone, or heated skillet/griddle.
- Bake or cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they puff up and develop brown spots. You can also use a pair of tongs to hold the naan directly over an open flame for a few seconds to get that traditional charred flavor.
- Once done, remove the naan from the oven or skillet and brush them with more melted butter or ghee if desired.
- Serve the homemade naan bread hot with your favorite curries, dips, or kebabs.
Enjoy your homemade naan bread as a delicious accompaniment to your favorite Indian dishes or as a versatile flatbread for various culinary creations
