Name: Garlic Naan Recipe: Soft and Flavorful
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: Garlic Naan:; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; 1 tsp sugar; 1/2 cup warm water; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp baking powder; 1/2 cup plain yogurt; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1/4 cup warm milk; Garlic Butter:; 3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley (chopped); Pinch of salt; Optional: Fresh cilantro (parsley); Suggested Pairings: Butter chicken (mango lassi)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Garlic Naan is a classic, flavorful Indian flatbread, perfect for pairing with curries, stews, or enjoying as a snack. This soft, chewy bread, brushed with a buttery garlic topping, delivers rich, savory flavors in every bite. Presented on a white ceramic platter, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley, this Garlic Naan offers a vibrant, inviting aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a traditional version adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing bread that brings warm, Indian-inspired charm to any meal.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Naan:

2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 tsp sugar
1/2 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup plain yogurt
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1/4 cup warm milk

For the Garlic Butter:

3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley, finely chopped
Pinch of salt

Serving:

Optional: Fresh cilantro or parsley
Suggested Accompaniments: Butter chicken, dal, cucumber raita
Suggested Pairings: Mango lassi, chai tea
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic platter
Suggested Equipment: Mixing bowl, skillet or griddle, rolling pin, pastry brush, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Make Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder. Add yogurt, vegetable oil, warm milk, and foamy yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Let Dough Rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, chopped cilantro or parsley, and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust with additional garlic or salt for a balanced flavor.
Shape and Cook Naan: Divide dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten and roll into an oval or teardrop shape (about 1/4 inch thick). Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Place a naan on the hot skillet and cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbles form and the bottom is golden. Flip and cook for 1–2 minutes more. Repeat with remaining dough.
Brush and Serve: Brush hot naan with garlic butter. Arrange on a white ceramic platter, garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve warm with butter chicken, dal, cucumber raita, mango lassi, or chai tea.

Tips for Better Garlic Naan

Use warm (not hot) water to activate yeast; too hot kills yeast, too cold slows rising.
Taste the garlic butter before brushing to balance savory and garlicky flavors.
Knead dough until smooth to achieve a soft, chewy texture.
Cook on a very hot skillet for characteristic naan bubbles and slight char.
Use a white ceramic platter for a vibrant presentation, highlighting the golden naan and green garnishes.
Make ahead: Prepare dough and refrigerate up to 24 hours; let come to room temperature before rolling.
Brush with garlic butter immediately after cooking to ensure it soaks in for maximum flavor.
Enhance aesthetic: Present on a white ceramic platter with fresh cilantro or parsley for a warm, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Garlic Naan: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and ensure baking powder is gluten-free.
Vegan Garlic Naan: Replace yogurt with plant-based yogurt, milk with plant-based milk, and butter with vegan margarine.
Low-Sodium Garlic Naan: Reduce salt in dough to 1/4 tsp and omit salt in garlic butter.
Spicy Garlic Naan: Add 1/4 tsp red chili powder or cayenne to the garlic butter.
Cheese Garlic Naan: Sprinkle 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella inside the dough before rolling and cooking.
Herb Garlic Naan: Add 1 tsp dried oregano or fresh rosemary to the dough for extra flavor.
Whole Wheat Garlic Naan: Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste.
Stuffed Garlic Naan: Stuff with 1 tbsp mashed potato or paneer before rolling and cooking.

Storage and Serving Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days; reheat in a skillet or oven.
Freeze cooked naan in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat in a skillet for best texture.
Serve warm for the best flavor and soft texture.
Use as a side for curries, a base for flatbread pizza, or a snack with dips.
Pair with cucumber raita or mango lassi to complement the garlicky, savory flavor.
Presented on a white ceramic platter with vibrant garnishes for a warm, inviting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 8 servings (1 naan each):

Calories: 220 kcal
Total Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 5g
Vitamin A: 4% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 2% Daily Value
Calcium: 6% Daily Value
Iron: 10% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by brand and yogurt type. Moderate in sodium; try the low-sodium variation. Pair with vegetables for balance.

Conclusion

This Garlic Naan recipe offers a soft, flavorful flatbread, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into an Indian classic. Its straightforward preparation and vibrant presentation make it a favorite. The chewy texture and buttery garlic flavor delight every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its versatile, savory appeal.