Homemade Naan Bread Recipe

Written by: Editor In Chief
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Why You’ll Love This Homemade Naan Bread Recipe

When you make this homemade naan bread, you’ll quickly discover why it’s a favorite in my kitchen.

The moment it comes out of the oven, that warm, fluffy texture and irresistible aroma fill the air. I love how it pairs perfectly with my favorite curries or just as a simple snack.

Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up! The thrill of watching it puff up under the broiler is such a delight.

Once you taste it brushed with melted butter, you’ll understand why I can’t get enough. Trust me, you’ll want to keep making this naan again and again!

Ingredients of Homemade Naan Bread

When it comes to making homemade naan bread, having the right ingredients is key to achieving that soft, chewy texture we all love. Getting everything prepped before you plunge into the mixing and kneading can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Trust me, nothing feels better than pulling a fresh batch of naan out of the oven and watching it puff up beautifully. So, let’s gather our ingredients and get ready to create something delicious!

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful naan bread:

  • 3 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon coarse salt
  • 1/2 tablespoon baking soda
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2/3 cup warm water
  • 1 tablespoon canola oil
  • 4 tablespoons butter, melted

Now, let’s talk a little bit about these ingredients. You might be wondering if you can swap out the all-purpose flour for something like whole wheat. Well, you can, but keep in mind that whole wheat flour will give your naan a different texture and flavor—slightly denser and nuttier.

And don’t even think about skimping on the melted butter; brushing it on right after the naan comes out of the oven is where the magic happens. That buttery goodness adds an extra layer of flavor that makes you want to come back for seconds (or thirds, no judgment here).

How to Make Homemade Naan Bread

homemade naan bread recipe

Making homemade naan bread is a delightful adventure, and I promise you, the smell wafting through your kitchen will be worth all the effort. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and immerse ourselves in the process.

First things first: grab your 3 2/3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of coarse salt, and 1/2 tablespoon of baking soda. In the bowl of your electric mixer, fitted with the paddle attachment (because who wants to mix by hand?), combine these dry ingredients. Just give them a little stir to mix everything together. It’s like a mini party in there, and everyone’s invited.

Now, let’s not forget the wet ingredients! In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of milk, 2/3 cup of warm water, and 1 tablespoon of canola oil. It’s essential to use warm water here; think cozy, not boiling. Trust me, the yeast in your bread will appreciate the warmth and reward you with fluffy naan.

While your mixer is humming along, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. As soon as it starts coming together, switch to the dough hook attachment and mix until the dough is smooth and no longer sticky. This is where you’ll want to channel your inner dough whisperer—just don’t over-mix; we’re not trying to make tennis balls here.

Once your dough is ready, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for a good hour. This is the perfect time to contemplate life choices or perhaps just snack on a few leftover ingredients.

After the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 500 degrees F with a pizza stone on the top rack, positioned about 6 inches below the broiler. Now, here comes the fun part: divide your dough into five pieces and roll each piece into an 8-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. These little rounds are like your edible canvases, so make them as perfect or imperfect as you like—no one will judge!

When the oven is ready, turn it to broil and slide one dough circle onto that preheated pizza stone. Keep a close eye on it; we’re talking just about 2 to 3 minutes until it bubbles and turns golden brown. It’s like magic, watching your dough puff up right before your eyes.

Remove it carefully, brush it with 4 tablespoons of melted butter (don’t skip this part; it’s the secret sauce), and serve it warm. Voilà—homemade naan bread, ready to be devoured. You might just find yourself wondering if you can eat the whole batch in one sitting (not that I’ve done that…maybe). Enjoy!

Homemade Naan Bread Substitutions & Variations

Although naan bread is delicious in its classic form, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can explore to suit your taste or dietary needs.

For a gluten-free option, try using almond or coconut flour. If you want a richer flavor, add yogurt or sour cream to the dough. You can also experiment with spices like garlic, cumin, or coriander for added taste.

For a twist, try stuffing the naan with cheese, spinach, or potatoes. Sweeten it up by adding a touch of honey or cinnamon for a unique dessert naan.

The possibilities are endless!

Additional Tips & Notes

To guarantee your homemade naan turns out perfectly every time, keep a few key tips in mind. First, make certain your water is warm but not hot; it helps the yeast activate without killing it.

When rolling the dough, aim for even thickness to guarantee uniform cooking. Don’t skip the preheating step for the pizza stone; it’s essential for achieving that perfect char.

I also recommend brushing the naan with garlic butter for an extra flavor boost. Finally, serve the naan fresh out of the oven for the best taste and texture. Enjoy your delicious homemade naan!