Naan bread is a staple in Indian cuisine, and for good reason. This fluffy and buttery bread is the perfect accompaniment to any curry or dish, and it’s so easy to make at home! In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make plain naan bread from scratch, so you can enjoy this delicious treat any time you want.
Ingredients (for 4 portions)
- 400g all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda.
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Add in the plain yogurt, milk, warm water, and vegetable oil. Mix until a rough dough forms.
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Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
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Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Let it rest in a warm place for at least 1 hour.
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Once the dough has doubled in size, divide it into 4 equal parts and roll each one out into a teardrop shape.
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Heat a skillet or tawa over medium-high heat. Place the rolled-out naan on the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbles start to form.
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Flip the naan over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until it puffs up and has brown spots on both sides.
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Remove from the skillet and brush with garlic butter. Serve warm.
Enjoy your homemade plain naan bread with your favorite Indian curries or dishes!
Variations
Garlic Naan
To make garlic naan, simply mix minced garlic into the dough before letting it rest. You can also brush the naan with garlic butter after cooking for extra flavor.
Cheese Naan
To make cheese naan, sprinkle shredded cheese on the rolled-out naan before cooking. You can use any type of cheese you like, but mozzarella or cheddar work best.
Vegan Naan
To make vegan naan, substitute the plain yogurt and milk with non-dairy alternatives like soy yogurt and almond milk. Use vegetable oil instead of butter for brushing.
Whole Wheat Naan
To make whole wheat naan, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. You may need to add a little extra water to the dough to make it more elastic.
We hope you enjoy making this plain naan recipe at home! It’s a delicious and easy way to elevate any Indian meal.
FAQ
What is Naan?
Naan is a type of flatbread that is traditionally served in Indian cuisine. It is made from dough that is typically baked in a tandoor oven.
What is Plain Naan?
Plain Naan is a simple version of Naan that does not include any toppings or seasonings. It is a classic, versatile Indian bread that can be served with a variety of dishes.
What ingredients do I need to make Plain Naan?
To make Plain Naan, you will need flour, yeast, salt, sugar, oil, and water.
Can I make Plain Naan without yeast?
Yes, you can make a version of Plain Naan without yeast, but it will have a different texture and flavor. You can use baking powder or baking soda instead of yeast.
How long does it take to make Plain Naan?
It takes about 2 hours to make Plain Naan from start to finish. This includes the time it takes for the dough to rise.
Can I freeze Plain Naan?
Yes, you can freeze Plain Naan. Let it cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat Plain Naan?
To reheat Plain Naan, wrap it in foil and place it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I make Plain Naan on a stovetop?
Yes, you can make Plain Naan on a stovetop. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat, then cook the naan for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and puffy.
Can I add toppings to Plain Naan?
Yes, you can add toppings to Plain Naan. Some popular options include garlic, herbs, cheese, or sesame seeds.
What dishes can I serve with Plain Naan?
Plain Naan can be served with a variety of dishes, including curries, stews, and kebabs. It is also delicious as a snack or appetizer served with chutney or hummus.
