Easy Soft Garlic Butter Naan Recipe (stovetop or air fryer) (2024)

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Naan Recipe

• Flavor:This Indian flatbread is soft and doughy with the perfect blend of garlic and butter flavor. This is the perfect accompaniment to any Indian or middle eastern dish.
• Nutrition:7 g protein per serving
• Time:10 minutes prep time. 15 minutes cook time. Allow for 1 hour 45 minutes rise time.
• Diet:Vegetarian
• Method: Stovetop

Ingredients

Naan Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups all purpose, divided
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup water lukewarm, 8 oz
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• ⅓ cup milk lukewarm
• 2 tablespoons plain yogurt (or Greek yogurt)
• 3 tablespoons oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (2 teaspoons)

Garlic Butter

• 3 tablespoons butter I used unsalted
• 3 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic

Variations

There are many variations of naan bread that are popular in South Asian cuisine. Here are some of the most common:

1. Plain naan: This is the most basic and traditional type of naan, made with a simple dough of flour, water, yeast, and salt.
2. Cheese naan: Cheese naan is a variation that is stuffed with grated cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar.
3. Tandoori naan: Tandoori naan is a type of naan that is cooked in a tandoor oven, which gives it a distinctive charred and bubbly texture.
4. Vegan naan: Substitute a vegan yogurt and butter in this recipe to make vegan naan bread.

Instructions

Full step-by-step instructions for homemade garlic naan bread are in the recipe card below. You can print the homemade naan bread recipe or save to Pinterest for later.

Step 3: In the mixer bowl, pour in warm milk, yogurt, oil, garlic and the flour mixture from the bowl you set aside.

Step 4: Using a dough hook on the electric mixer, mix until combined.

Slowly add additional flour 1 tablespoon at a time. The dough will be very sticky when combined. Do not over flour. Kneed with the dough hook attachment for 2-3 mins until the dough is smooth.

Step 5: Grease a medium bowl. Place dough ball into the greased bowl.

Step 6: Cover with a kitchen towel and set aside in a warm place for a 90 minutes (1.5 hrs) dough rise. Dough ball will double in size.

Step 7: Punch the dough down carefully to release the air.

Step 8: Divide the dough into 8 parts. Oil hands before handling to prevent the dough from sticking to your hands.

Step 9: Place naan dough balls on parchment paper or a non-stick surface. Cover with a kitchen towel and let rise for 15 minutes.

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Brush lightly with oil. A cast-iron pan will give best results but you can use any type of skillet that can endure high heat.

Step 10: Drizzle a little oil on top of one soft dough ball. Oil the rolling pin. Using the roller (on a lightly floured surface) or hands, stretch the dough into an oval shape, about 10-inches long and 6-inches wide.

Make garlic butter by melting 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cilantro. Stir to combine.

Step 11: Place the rolled naan onto the hot skillet. When the top begins to bubble (1-2 minutes), brush the top with the garlic butter. Use tongs to flip it over. Brush top with garlic butter. Cook until golden brown on both sides. Remove from heat.

Step 12: For an authentic naan, move the skillet and flip it directly onto the gas burner to cook.Cook for 15-20 seconds directly on the gas until golden brown. Remove from heat.

Brush with garlic butter again for a yummy butter garlic naan. Garnish with more parsley and course salt, if desired. Serve

Tips and Tricks

Serving Suggestions

Naan is a versatile bread accompaniment that pairs well with a wide variety of dishes. Here are some popular foods that are often served with naan:

1. Curry: Naan bread is a classic accompaniment to Indian curries, such as butter chicken, chicken tikka masala, or vegetable korma.
2. Chutney and dips: Serve naan bread with a variety of chutneys and dips, such as mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or hummus.
3. Grilled meats: Use naan as a wrap for grilled meats, such as chicken, lamb, or beef.
4. Vegetables: Serve with a variety of vegetable dishes, such as saag paneer, aloo gobi, or baingan bharta.
5. Rice: Serve alongside rice dishes, such as biryani or pilaf, to help soak up the flavors of the dish.

Storing

To store naan bread, let it cool completely on a wire rack or plate before transferring it to an airtight container or plastic bag. If you have multiple naan breads, separate them with a layer of parchment paper or wax paper to prevent them from sticking together.

Store at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you plan to store it for longer than 2-3 days, it’s best to freeze it to maintain freshness. To freeze naan bread, wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Using Leftovers

There are several ways to reheat naan bread, depending on your preference and equipment:

1. Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the naan bread in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until warm.
2. Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Brush the naan bread with a little bit of water or oil, and place it in the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side.
3. Toaster oven: Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the naan bread directly on the rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for 2-3 minutes.
4. Microwave: Place the naan bread on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 10-15 seconds.

Regardless of which method you choose, be careful not to overheat the naan bread, as it can become dry and tough. As soon as it’s heated through, remove it from the heat. Serve hot with your favorite dishes or enjoy on its own.

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