There’s something truly magical about fresh, warm naan. As you tear into that pillowy bread, the aroma of garlic and butter wafts through the air, making your taste buds dance with anticipation. Whether you’re dipping it into a rich curry or enjoying it straight from the pan, Garlic Butter Naan is a delightful treat that you can easily whip up in your own kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can bring the flavors of your favorite Indian restaurant right to your dining table. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in homemade goodness!

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Garlic Butter Naan is not just a side dish; it’s a versatile companion to countless meals. It’s perfect for soaking up a flavorful curry, or you can enjoy it with a simple spread of butter or hummus. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You don’t need specialized equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Plus, making naan at home is a fun activity that can be enjoyed with family or friends. During these times when we’re all spending more time at home, why not elevate your culinary skills and enjoy the process of making something delicious?

What We’re Using

2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of our naan, giving it that lovely, soft texture.
1 teaspoon baking powder: This helps the naan rise, giving it that ideal fluffiness.
1 teaspoon baking soda: A little extra leavening agent for that perfect puff.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for flavor, enhancing all the other ingredients.
3/4 cup warm milk: This hydrates the dough and helps with the rise.
1/2 cup plain yogurt: Adds richness and tang, making the naan incredibly soft.
1 teaspoon honey: Just a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
Canola or vegetable oil: For brushing on the naan before cooking.
4 tablespoons salted butter: The star of our garlic butter mixture!
3 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic gives the naan its delightful aroma and flavor.
Fresh chopped parsley: For a pop of color and freshness when serving.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Mixing bowl: For combining your dry and wet ingredients.
Rolling pin: To roll out the naan dough into flat rounds.
Skillet or tawa: A heavy-bottomed skillet works well for cooking the naan.
Spatula: To flip the naan while cooking.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Garlic press (optional): Makes mincing garlic a breeze!

The Method for Garlic Butter Naan. (aka, what you should make in your quarantine kitchen this weekend!)

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk the dry ingredients together until well combined. In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk, yogurt, and honey until smooth. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring with a spoon until a shaggy dough begins to form.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it gently for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.

Step 3: Let it Rest

Shape the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for at least 1 hour at room temperature. This resting period allows the gluten to relax and makes rolling the naan easier.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter

While the dough is resting, melt the salted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Roll Out the Naan

After the dough has rested, divide it into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then use a rolling pin to flatten each ball into an oval or round shape, about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 6: Cook the Naan

Heat a skillet or tawa over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place one naan on the skillet. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until bubbles form on the surface. Flip the naan and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown and slightly charred.

Step 7: Brush with Garlic Butter

Once the naan is cooked, immediately brush it with the prepared garlic butter. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

Step 8: Repeat

Repeat the cooking process for the remaining pieces of dough, brushing each naan with garlic butter as it comes off the skillet.

Variations for Dietary Needs

For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
To make this vegan, replace the yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt and use a plant-based butter alternative.
If you’re avoiding dairy, almond or oat milk can be used instead of regular milk.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red chili flakes to the garlic butter mixture.

Cook’s Notes

Ensure your milk is warm, not hot, to avoid curdling the yogurt.
If the dough is too dry, add a bit more warm milk to achieve the right consistency.
Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices in the garlic butter, such as oregano or cumin.
Fresh garlic is key for flavor; avoid pre-minced garlic if possible for the best results.

Storing Tips & Timelines

Garlic Butter Naan is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet for a few minutes on each side. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked naan. Wrap each naan in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat in the skillet or microwave.

Common Qs About Garlic Butter Naan. (aka, what you should make in your quarantine kitchen this weekend!)

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the naan will be denser. To achieve a lighter texture, you may want to use a blend of both flours.

What can I serve with Garlic Butter Naan?

Garlic Butter Naan pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, such as Chicken Tikka Masala, Palak Paneer, or even a simple Lentil Soup.

How can I make the naan more flavorful?

Experiment with adding herbs and spices to the dough or the garlic butter. You can try adding chopped cilantro or cumin to the dough for an extra kick of flavor.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate it after kneading, and let it come to room temperature before rolling and cooking.

Serve with These

Final Bite

Homemade Garlic Butter Naan is not only a delicious addition to your meals but also a fun and rewarding cooking project. As you knead the dough and watch it rise, you’ll appreciate the simplicity and satisfaction of creating something from scratch. Whether you’re enjoying it with a bowl of curry or as a stand-alone snack, the experience of making and sharing this naan will surely bring a smile to your face. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and make this delightful bread that will fill your kitchen with warmth and flavor. Happy cooking!

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