If you’re looking to elevate your homemade Indian meals or simply want a delightful bread to accompany your favorite dishes, look no further than this Perfect Naan Bread with Garlic Butter. Soft, pillowy, and infused with aromatic garlic butter, this naan will become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you serve it with a warm curry or use it to scoop up your favorite dips, this naan is truly irresistible!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This recipe for Perfect Naan Bread with Garlic Butter is not only straightforward, but it also yields results that will have your family and friends begging for more. With a fluffy texture and a rich buttery garlic flavor, you’ll love how versatile this bread is. Plus, it comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
What You’ll Gather
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of your naan, providing structure and softness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Just a pinch to balance flavors and enhance browning.
- 1 teaspoon instant dry yeast – Helps the naan rise to its fluffy perfection.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for flavor.
- 1 teaspoon anise seeds (optional) – Adds a unique, aromatic touch.
- ¾ cup warm water – Activates the yeast and hydrates the flour.
- ½ cup plain yogurt – Contributes to the naan’s tenderness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Adds richness and helps with the dough’s elasticity.
- ¼ cup melted unsalted butter – For making the garlic butter topping.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses the naan with a robust garlic flavor.
- Pinch of sea salt – To enhance the garlic butter.
- Chopped parsley for garnish – A fresh touch that looks and tastes great.
Must-Have Equipment
- Mixing bowl – For combining your ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Precision is key in baking!
- Rolling pin – To shape your naan dough.
- Cast iron skillet or non-stick pan – Perfect for cooking naan on the stovetop.
- Brush – For spreading the garlic butter on your naan.
Make Perfect Naan Bread with Garlic Butter: A Simple Method
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, instant dry yeast, salt, and anise seeds if using. Mix these dry ingredients together until well combined.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Create a well in the center of the dry mixture. Pour in the warm water, plain yogurt, and olive oil. Stir until the mixture comes together into a sticky dough.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Step 5: Prepare Garlic Butter
While the dough is rising, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the garlic powder and a pinch of sea salt. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 6: Shape and Cook the Naan
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Using a rolling pin, flatten each ball into an oval or round shape, about ¼ inch thick.
Heat your cast iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Place one naan in the skillet and cook for about 1-2 minutes until bubbles start to form on the surface. Flip the naan and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Repeat with remaining dough.
Step 7: Brush with Garlic Butter
Once cooked, immediately brush the naan with the prepared garlic butter. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Dietary Customizations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan: Replace yogurt with a plant-based alternative and use vegan butter for the garlic topping.
- Low-Carb: Use almond flour or coconut flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour.
Avoid These Mistakes
- Don’t skip the proofing step. Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for getting that fluffy texture.
- Be careful with the heat; too high can burn the naan before it’s fully cooked. Medium-high is usually perfect.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook one or two pieces at a time for best results.
- Ensure your yeast is fresh; expired yeast won’t make the dough rise.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
Store any leftover naan in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the naan. Just place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet or microwave until heated through. You can also brush them with a little extra garlic butter before serving for that fresh taste!
Top Questions & Answers
Can I make naan without yogurt?
Yes! If you don’t have yogurt, you can use milk or a dairy-free alternative. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid slightly to achieve the right dough consistency.
How can I make naan without a skillet?
If you don’t have a skillet, you can use an oven. Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) and place a baking stone or inverted baking sheet inside to heat. Bake the naan for about 2-3 minutes per side.
Can I add toppings to my naan?
Absolutely! Feel free to add toppings like cheese, herbs, or spices before cooking for a delicious twist. You can even try adding toppings similar to those used in Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake.
What can I serve with naan?
Naan pairs beautifully with curries, stews, and dips. You can also serve it alongside dishes like Garlic Butter Shrimp And Rice for a complete meal.
Similar Recipes
Bring It to the Table
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Perfect Naan Bread with Garlic Butter, it’s time to enjoy it fresh off the skillet. Serve it warm alongside your favorite dishes, or use it as a vessel for sauces and dips. Your family and friends will be impressed with your culinary skills, and this naan will surely become a beloved addition to your mealtime repertoire. Enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of this homemade naan, and happy cooking!
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Perfect Naan Bread with Garlic Butter
Ingredients
For the Naan:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon instant dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon anise seeds (optional)
- ¾ cup warm water
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch sea salt to enhance the garlic butter
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Making the Naan:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, instant dry yeast, salt, and anise seeds if using. Mix these dry ingredients together until well combined.
- Create a well in the center of the dry mixture. Pour in the warm water, plain yogurt, and olive oil. Stir until the mixture comes together into a sticky dough.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- While the dough is rising, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the garlic powder and a pinch of sea salt. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Using a rolling pin, flatten each ball into an oval or round shape, about ¼ inch thick.
- Heat your cast iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Place one naan in the skillet and cook for about 1-2 minutes until bubbles start to form on the surface. Flip the naan and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Repeat with remaining dough.
- Once cooked, immediately brush the naan with the prepared garlic butter. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling Pin
- Cast iron skillet or non-stick pan
- Brush
Notes
- Store leftover naan in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the naan in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Reheat naan in a skillet or microwave; brush with extra garlic butter before serving for freshness.
