Description
Authentic Artisan Garlic Naan is a classic Indian flatbread cooked on a stovetop skillet to achieve soft, fluffy texture with delightful garlic and cilantro flavors. This homemade recipe uses yogurt and yeast for the perfect rise, making it an ideal side dish to complement curries and other Indian dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup plain whole milk yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup warm milk
Topping Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening.
- Make Dough: Add the frothy yeast mixture, plain yogurt, olive oil, and warm milk to the dry ingredients. Mix everything together until a dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead vigorously for about 6–8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, which helps develop gluten for the right texture.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours or until it doubles in size.
- Shape Naan: Punch down the risen dough to remove air bubbles. Divide it into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten into an oval or tear-drop shape about ¼-inch thick.
- Cook Naan: Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat. Cook each naan for 1–2 minutes on the first side until bubbles appear, then flip and cook the other side for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown spots develop.
- Add Garlic Butter and Cilantro: While the naan is still hot, brush it generously with melted butter mixed with minced garlic. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top.
- Serve: Serve the garlic naan warm as a perfect accompaniment to your favorite Indian dishes.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle grated cheese or nigella seeds on the naan before cooking.
- Naan can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in a skillet or oven for best texture.
