Delicious Homemade Naan Bread Recipe

Ready in: 2 hours 30 minutes · Serves: 6 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Airtight container for 2 days or freeze.

Quick Answer

Make homemade naan by activating yeast, mixing a simple dough, allowing it to rise, shaping, and cooking in a hot skillet for a fluffy, warm bread.

As the chilly air of autumn settles into New York City and the vibrant colors of the leaves begin to change, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with warm, comforting aromas. With the holidays approaching—Thanksgiving and Christmas—I’ve turned my attention to the little things that can elevate those special dinners. One standout staple that’s become a go-to in my home is homemade naan bread. This fluffy, pillowy bread pairs perfectly with anything from spiced curries to roasted vegetables. It’s an art I’ve embraced, allowing me to impress my guests and indulge in a slice of culinary magic during the festive season.

A Cozy Holiday Treat

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fluffy and pillowy texture that elevates any meal.
• Quick to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute dinners.
• Versatile, pairs well with a variety of dishes like curries and roasted vegetables.
• A delightful hands-on cooking experience that brings joy to your kitchen.
• Impress your guests with this homemade bread that feels gourmet.

Ingredients

To make this delightful naan bread, you will need:

For the Dough

• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons plain yogurt (preferably Greek yogurt)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For Garnish

• Fresh cilantro (optional)

How to Make Homemade Naan Bread (Step-by-Step)

This homemade naan bread is easy to make and will have everyone asking for your secret recipe.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your naan will rise beautifully.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture along with the yogurt and melted butter. Using a wooden spoon, mix until a rough dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes. Watching the dough come together into a smooth, elastic ball is incredibly satisfying.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm environment for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Shape the Naan

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide it into 6 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Using a rolling pin, stretch each ball into a teardrop shape, about ¼ inch thick.

Step 6: Cook the Naan

Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place a shaped naan onto the skillet, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish

Brush with melted butter immediately after cooking, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro if desired.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Enjoy your naan warm, straight from the pan. It’s perfect for scooping up your favorite dishes or simply paired with a touch of soft butter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using cold water for yeast activation: Always ensure that your water is warm but not hot; otherwise, you might kill the yeast.
• Skipping the kneading process: Kneading develops gluten; skipping this step could lead to flat naan that lacks structure.
• Overcooking on high heat: Cooking on heat that’s too high can burn the outside while leaving the inside doughy. Medium-high is perfect for that balance.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• If you’re short on time, you can prepare the dough the night before, let it rise in the fridge, and bring it to room temperature before rolling and cooking.
• For a garlicky twist, mix minced garlic into the melted butter before brushing it on the naan.
• Experiment with different toppings; try sprinkling sesame seeds or even a dash of za’atar before cooking for a unique flavor profile.

Variations

• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
• Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for extra flavor.
• Try different dairy options, such as sour cream, in place of yogurt.

How to Serve

• Enjoy warm with your favorite curry or stew.
• Serve as a side with roasted vegetables.
• Use for wraps or to scoop up dips like hummus.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: Prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge.
• Storage: Best enjoyed fresh; store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on a hot skillet or in a warm oven until warmed through.
• Freezing: Wrap in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for longer storage.

Recipe Notes / What I Learned

Perfecting this naan recipe has been a rewarding journey. I’ve realized the joy of creating comforting food with my own hands. Each time I lift a golden naan from the skillet, I feel accomplished and connected to the culinary traditions that warm the heart—perfect for sharing during the holidays.

Yield and Serving Size

Yield: 6 naan · Serving Size: 1 naan

Nutrition Snapshot

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~210 calories · 5g protein · 36g carbs · 6g fat

Amberly Vahn

Delicious Homemade Naan Bread

This fluffy, pillowy naan bread is perfect for pairing with spiced curries and roasted vegetables, elevating any meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Rising Time 2 hours hrs

Total Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Side

Cuisine: Indian

Calories: 210

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Group: Ingredients

• 2 tsp. active dry yeast
• 1 tsp. sugar
• ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
• ½ tsp. salt
• 3 Tbsp. plain yogurt (preferably Greek)
• 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter (melted)
• Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)

Equipment

• Cast-iron skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Rolling Pin
• Damp cloth

Method

 

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture along with the yogurt and melted butter. Mix until a rough dough forms.
3. On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
5. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently. Divide into 6 equal pieces and roll each into a ball. Roll out each ball into a teardrop shape, about ¼ inch thick.
6. Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each naan for about 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
7. Brush with melted butter immediately after cooking and sprinkle with fresh cilantro if desired.
8. Enjoy your naan warm, paired with your favorite dishes.

Notes

For optimal results, ensure your yeast is activated properly and do not skip the kneading step.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may result in a denser naan. Consider mixing half all-purpose flour with half whole wheat for a balanced texture.

How can I make my naan more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor, you can mix in minced garlic, herbs, or spices into the dough, or brush the naan with garlic-infused butter after cooking.

Can naan be reheated, and how should I do it?

Yes, naan can be reheated. You can place it on a hot skillet or in a warm oven until heated through. Adding a little butter while reheating can also help restore its softness.