Hey there! Today on Beyond The Bayou Blog. I’m excited to share my experience making Naan Bread. As I was kneading the dough, the aroma took me back to a memory of my neighbor, Mrs. Patel, who hails from India. She used to make the most incredible naan, and I always marveled at how she effortlessly flipped them on her stovetop.

This naan recipe is close to my heart because it’s a tribute to those flavorful moments shared with Mrs. Patel. She used to invite us for lunch or dinners and serve us with Japanese Pork Curry and naan breads. It’s a simple yet fulfilling process, using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

The dough rises beautifully, creating those characteristic bubbles that make naan so irresistible. Whether paired with a hearty curry or enjoyed on its own, this homemade naan brings a touch of warmth and nostalgia to any meal.

So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into making this comforting, aromatic naan bread together. You’re in for a treat!

Why Choose Naan Bread?

Simple and Fail-Proof: Highly recommended: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow and virtually foolproof.
Versatile Side Dish: Naan bread is fantastic on its own and makes an excellent side for curries and various Indian dishes.
Common Ingredients: Highly recommended: You likely already have all the ingredients you need in your kitchen if you cook or bake regularly.
Make Ahead and Freeze: This recipe is ideal for prepping in advance and freezing, making it perfect for hectic weeknights when you need a quick meal solution.

Overview: How To Make Naan Bread?

Today, I’m sharing my favorite recipe for homemade naan bread with a delicious garlic butter twist. To start, activate the yeast in warm water and honey until it’s nice and foamy.

Then mix in flour, yogurt, salt, baking powder, and an egg to form a smooth dough. Let it rise until doubled in size. Meanwhile, whip up the optional garlic butter for that extra flavor punch. Roll out the dough, cook it in a hot skillet until golden and bubbly, then brush with the aromatic garlic butter.

Sprinkle with fresh herbs and a pinch of flaky sea salt if you like. This naan is perfect for pairing with your favorite curry or enjoying on its own. Get ready for a taste sensation that’s sure to impress! You can even try more such breads recipes.

Tips that Are Bliss!

Divide the Dough: Split the dough into 8 equal balls.
Heat the Skillet: Preheat a cast-iron skillet on high heat to make the naan.
Importance of High Heat: The intense heat helps the dough rise and creates air pockets in the bread’s center. Look for brown “blisters” or spots, similar to the ones in my pictures, to know when it’s done.
Yeast Activation: Although instant yeast usually doesn’t need to be activated in warm water, for this recipe, it helps achieve a fluffier texture compared to adding it directly to the flour or using active dry yeast.
Dough Thickness: The width of the naan can vary from 5 to 10 inches, but the thickness should ideally be 3 to 5 millimeters. Too thin and they’ll be crispy, but too thick and they won’t form bubbles.
Using a Cast-Iron Skillet: Since homemade naan is traditionally cooked in a tandoor oven, a cast-iron skillet is your best bet if you don’t have one. It evenly distributes heat, ensuring each piece of dough cooks uniformly. Other heavy-bottomed pans will also work well.

Variations You Should Try!

Garlic Butter Addition: Highly recommended: Incorporate garlic butter into the naan dough for an extra burst of flavor. It’s a game-changer!
Fresh Herbs: Try adding traditional herbs like cilantro or parsley to the naan dough. Experiment with other fresh or dried herb blends for unique flavors. I personally enjoy sprinkling everything bagel seasoning or za’atar on top, which I highly recommend.
Cheese Option: While not traditional, adding shredded cheddar cheese to the naan dough or freshly-grated Parmesan before serving adds a delightful twist. Give it a try for a cheesy, delicious naan experience!

What to Serve with Naan Bread?

Make Ahead and Storage!

Prepare the dough in advance. Once it has risen, deflate it, place it in an oiled bag, and refrigerate for up to two days. Alternatively, you can freeze it for up to two months.
When ready to use, make the naan and store it in a sealed bag or container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to two days, in the fridge for 3-4 days, or in the freezer for up to a month.
For reheating, warm the naan in a 375-400Â°F (204Â°C) oven for a couple of minutes or on the grill for about a minute until warmed through. This ensures the best taste and texture, especially if you plan to use it for dipping.

What Is the Difference Between Pita Bread and Naan Bread?

Flatbread Similarities: Both pita and naan are flatbreads commonly served in similar ways.
Texture Differences: The key difference lies in their texture due to their distinct preparation methods.
Pita Bread: Pita bread is made with basic baking ingredients, resulting in a stiffer texture that’s perfect for holding various fillings.
Naan Bread: Naan includes yogurt and sometimes eggs in addition to common ingredients, leading to a softer and more pliable texture.
Size Variation: In terms of size, pita bread is typically around 5 inches in diameter, while naan tends to be larger, around 10 inches in diameter.

Is Naan Better with Or without Yeast?

Naan with yeast is softer and has a more traditional texture, while yeast-free naan tends to be denser and closer to a flatbread. Both versions have their charm depending on personal preference and the desired dish. It’s worth trying both to see which you prefer!