Keema Naan Recipe: A Delicious Indian Delight

Introduction

Keema Naan is a delicious Indian flatbread stuffed with spiced ground meat. This hearty and flavorful bread is perfect for a meal on its own or as an accompaniment to a curry or other Indian dish. The filling is made with ground lamb or beef, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The dough is made with all-purpose flour, yeast, and yogurt, giving it a soft and chewy texture. If you’re looking for a new and exciting way to enjoy Indian cuisine, give this Keema Naan recipe a try!

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup warm water

For the filling:

• 1 lb ground lamb or beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Add the yogurt and warm water and mix until a dough forms.

2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-15 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes.

3. While the dough is rising, make the filling. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

4. Add the ground lamb or beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Add the cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, salt, and pepper and stir to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the spices are fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.

5. Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C). Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each one out into an oval shape. Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of the filling onto one half of each oval, leaving a small border around the edges.

6. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal. Use a rolling pin to flatten each stuffed naan into a circle about 1/4 inch thick.

7. Place the stuffed naan on a baking sheet or pizza stone and bake for 7-8 minutes, until puffed and lightly browned. Brush with butter or ghee and sprinkle with chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Vegetarian/Vegan Substitute

If you’re vegetarian or vegan, you can substitute the ground meat with crumbled tofu or tempeh. Add some extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling for additional flavor and nutrition.

Gluten-Free Substitute

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum or another binding agent to ensure the dough holds together properly.

FAQ

What is Keema Naan?

Keema Naan is a type of Indian bread stuffed with spiced minced meat. It is a popular dish in India and is often served with curry or chutney.

What type of meat is traditionally used in Keema Naan?

Traditionally, lamb or mutton is used in Keema Naan. However, you can also use ground beef or chicken if you prefer.

Can I make Keema Naan without a tandoor oven?

Yes, you can make Keema Naan without a tandoor oven. You can bake it in a regular oven or cook it on a stovetop griddle.

Can I make Keema Naan ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Keema Naan ahead of time. You can prepare the dough and filling in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you are ready to cook, simply stuff the dough with the filling and cook as usual.

Can I freeze Keema Naan?

Yes, you can freeze Keema Naan. Simply wrap the cooked bread in foil or plastic wrap and store it in the freezer. When you are ready to eat, thaw the bread and reheat it in the oven or microwave.

What can I serve with Keema Naan?

Keema Naan is often served with curry or chutney. You can also serve it with raita, a yogurt-based side dish, or a salad.

Can I make Keema Naan vegetarian?

Yes, you can make Keema Naan vegetarian by using a meat substitute or vegetables instead of meat. For example, you can use crumbled tofu or minced mushrooms as a filling.

Can I make Keema Naan gluten-free?

Yes, you can make Keema Naan gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid in the dough to get the right consistency.

Can I use pre-made Naan bread for Keema Naan?

Yes, you can use pre-made Naan bread for Keema Naan. Simply cut a pocket in the bread and stuff it with the Keema filling. Then, cook the bread as usual.

How can I prevent the Keema filling from leaking out of the Naan bread?

To prevent the Keema filling from leaking out of the Naan bread, make sure the dough is rolled out thin and evenly. Also, make sure the filling is not too wet or it may seep out during cooking. Finally, seal the edges of the dough tightly to prevent any leaks.