Name: Easy Garlic Naan Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour; 1 package (0.25 oz) active dry yeast or instant yeast; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 cup (240 ml) warm water, 110°F; 1 teaspoon salt; 4 tablespoons plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons oil or ghee; 3 tablespoons minced garlic; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro or parsley

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Introduction

Garlic naan is a soft, flavorful Indian flatbread that’s perfect for soaking up sauces or enjoying on its own. This easy recipe guides you step-by-step to make warm, garlicky naan right in your kitchen.

The image shows eight small dough balls covered with white flour resting on a large round plate with a dark rim, also lightly dusted with flour. The dough balls have a soft, smooth texture and are arranged in a loose circular pattern. Two small white bowls are visible near the plate, one filled with flour and the other with salt, all set on a white marbled surface. The overall look is clean, bright, and simple, focusing on the soft white dough and scattered flour. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
1 package (0.25 oz) active dry yeast or instant yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
1 cup (240 ml) warm water, 110°F
1 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons plain yogurt
2 tablespoons oil or ghee
3 tablespoons minced garlic
2 tablespoons melted butter
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro or parsley

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, combine the yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy to activate the yeast.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, yogurt, and oil. Add the activated yeast mixture and knead for 10 minutes until the dough is smooth.
Step 3: Cover the dough and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Divide the dough into 8 equal balls. Roll each ball into an oval shape about 8 inches long.
Step 5: Heat a greased skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each naan for about 1 minute on each side until bubbly and golden brown.
Step 6: Mix the minced garlic with melted butter. Brush this garlic butter over the cooked naans, sprinkle with salt, and garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley.

Tips & Variations

For extra softness, add a bit more yogurt or brush the naan with butter immediately after cooking while still hot.
Substitute cilantro with fresh mint or skip herbs entirely to suit your taste.
If you prefer a smokier flavor, cook the naan on a grill or directly over an open flame carefully.

Storage

Store leftover naan wrapped in foil or an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep longer, freeze the naan in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat by warming in a skillet or oven until soft and heated through.

How to Serve

Two pieces of naan bread are placed on a white cutting board, which sits on a white marbled surface. Each naan is round with a slightly irregular shape, showing a golden-brown toasted texture with darker charred spots on the surface. The bread looks soft and fluffy with air bubbles and a light sprinkling of chopped green herbs scattered on top. The background shows a blurred white cloth and some scattered herbs, adding a fresh look to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, both active dry yeast and instant yeast work well. If using active dry yeast, dissolve it in warm water first as described to activate it properly.

How do I keep the naan soft after cooking?

Brush them immediately with melted butter or ghee while they are hot. Wrapping the naan in a clean kitchen towel also helps retain moisture and softness.