Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Easy Naan Bread is not only incredibly simple to make but also super versatile. The soft and fluffy texture makes it perfect for mopping up rich, flavorful sauces, while the slight tang from the yogurt adds a unique depth of flavor. It’s a great alternative for when you want homemade naan but don’t have the time or ingredients for a traditional yeast-based recipe. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to be a hit with your favorite curry or grilled dishes.
Ingredients
- 250 g (2 cups) plain flour
- 250 g (1 cup) plain yogurt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 pinch sea salt
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain flour, baking powder, and sea salt. Add the yogurt and mix well until a dough starts to form. Use your hands to knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add a small splash of water or yogurt.
- Rest the Dough: Once the dough is smooth, cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for 15-20 minutes to allow the ingredients to fully combine.
- Roll the Naan: After the dough has rested, divide it into 6-8 small balls (depending on how large you want the naan). Roll each ball into a flat, round shape using a rolling pin, about 1/4-inch thick. You can make them as thin or thick as you like.
- Cook the Naan: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, place one naan in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbles start to form on the surface. Flip the naan and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until lightly golden and cooked through. You can press gently on the naan to help it cook evenly. Repeat for the remaining dough balls.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the naan from the pan and, if desired, brush with melted butter or ghee for extra flavor. Serve warm with your favorite curry, dips, or grilled dishes.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8 pieces
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Garlic Naan: Brush the naan with melted butter or ghee and sprinkle with finely minced garlic before serving for a flavorful garlic naan.
- Herbed Naan: Add chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the dough before rolling for a fragrant, herb-infused naan.
- Cheese Naan: Place a small amount of shredded cheese in the center of each ball before rolling it out to create a cheesy naan.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover naan in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the naan in a dry skillet over medium heat for a minute or two, or wrap them in foil and heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of plain flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for plain flour, but the texture of the naan will be denser and slightly firmer. You may need to adjust the amount of yogurt slightly to achieve the right dough consistency.
Can I make naan ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the naan dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling and cooking. You can also freeze cooked naan for later use—just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Can I use non-dairy yogurt for a dairy-free version?
Yes, you can use non-dairy yogurt, such as coconut yogurt or almond milk yogurt, as a substitute for regular yogurt. Just ensure that the non-dairy yogurt is unsweetened and has a similar consistency.
Do I need a tandoor to make naan?
No, you don’t need a tandoor oven to make naan. A regular skillet or griddle will work perfectly to cook naan at home. The high heat of the pan mimics the cooking method of a tandoor, giving the naan its characteristic texture and flavor.
Can I make this naan dough without baking powder?
While the baking powder helps create a soft and fluffy texture, if you don’t have it, you can omit it. However, the naan may turn out denser. Alternatively, you can use self-rising flour as a substitute for the plain flour and baking powder.
Conclusion
This Easy Naan Bread recipe is a simple and quick way to enjoy homemade naan without the need for yeast or special equipment. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can make soft, delicious naan that pairs perfectly with your favorite curry, stews, or dips. Customize it with garlic, herbs, or cheese for extra flavor, and serve it as a side dish that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of homemade naan in no time!
PrintEasy Naan Bread
This Easy Naan Bread recipe is a quick and simple way to enjoy soft, pillowy naan without yeast. Made with just flour, yogurt, baking powder, and a pinch of salt, it’s the perfect accompaniment to curries, stews, or dips. Customize with garlic, herbs, or cheese for added flavor!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 pieces
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
250 g (2 cups) plain flour
250 g (1 cup) plain yogurt
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 pinch sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain flour, baking powder, and sea salt. Add the yogurt and mix well until a dough starts to form. Use your hands to knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if too dry, add a splash of water or yogurt.
- Rest the Dough: Once the dough is smooth, cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for 15-20 minutes to allow the ingredients to fully combine.
- Roll the Naan: After the dough has rested, divide it into 6-8 small balls. Roll each ball into a flat, round shape using a rolling pin, about 1/4-inch thick. You can adjust the thickness according to your preference.
- Cook the Naan: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Once hot, place one naan on the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until bubbles start to form on the surface. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Press gently to help it cook evenly. Repeat for the remaining dough balls.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the naan from the skillet and, if desired, brush with melted butter or ghee. Serve warm with your favorite curry, stews, or dips.
Notes
Garlic Naan: Brush the naan with melted butter and sprinkle with finely minced garlic before serving.
Herbed Naan: Add chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the dough before rolling for a fragrant naan.
Cheese Naan: Place a small amount of shredded cheese in the center of each ball before rolling it out for cheesy naan.
