Garlic Butter Naan
Description
Garlic Butter Naan is a soft, pillowy Indian flatbread traditionally cooked in a tandoor (clay oven), then brushed with melted butter and topped with fresh garlic and herbs. This homemade version uses a stovetop or oven and delivers the same rich, slightly charred, restaurant-style flavor.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp instant yeast
- 2 tbsp yogurt
- 2 tbsp oil or melted butter
- ¾ cup warm water (adjust as needed)
For Garlic Butter:
- 3 tbsp butter (melted)
- 3–4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh coriander (cilantro)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Dough
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- Add yogurt, oil, and warm water gradually.
- Knead into a soft dough (8–10 minutes).
- Cover and let rise for 1–2 hours (until doubled).
Step 2: Make Garlic Butter
- Mix melted butter, minced garlic, and coriander. Set aside.
Step 3: Shape Naan
- Divide dough into equal balls (6–8 pieces).
- Roll each into an oval or teardrop shape.
Step 4: Cook
Stovetop method:
- Heat a heavy pan (cast iron works best).
- Place naan on hot pan until bubbles form.
- Flip and cook until charred spots appear.
Optional: Press lightly for better puffing.
Step 5: Finish
- Brush immediately with garlic butter.
Servings
- Makes 6–8 naan breads
Notes
- Yogurt makes naan softer and slightly tangy.
- Dough should be soft but not sticky.
- High heat is key for authentic texture.
Tips
- Use cast iron pan for best results (mimics tandoor heat).
- Add a little milk instead of water for richer naan.
- For extra softness, cover cooked naan with a cloth.
- Sprinkle nigella seeds (kalonji) for authentic flavor.
- Don’t over-roll — slightly thick naan stays softer.
Nutritional Info (Per Naan Approx.)
- Calories: 180–220 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 6–8g
- Fiber: 1–2g
(Varies based on butter quantity)
Benefits
- Provides quick energy from carbs
- Yogurt adds probiotics (gut health)
- Garlic has antibacterial and immune-boosting properties
- Homemade version avoids preservatives and excess oil
Q & A
Q1: Can I make naan without yeast?
Yes — substitute yeast with baking powder + baking soda for a quicker version, though texture will differ slightly.
Q2: Why is my naan not soft?
- Dough may be too stiff
- Not enough resting time
- Cooking heat too low
Q3: Can I store naan?
- Refrigerate: up to 3 days
- Freeze: up to 2 months
Reheat on pan or microwave with a damp cloth.
Q4: Can I bake naan instead?
Yes — bake at 250°C (480°F) for 5–7 minutes or until puffed.
Q5: How to get restaurant-style flavor?
- Use high heat
- Add slight charring
- Generous garlic butter brushing