Naan is a traditional Indian flatbread that is soft, fluffy, and perfect for scooping up your favorite curries and sauces. This homemade version is easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients. Whether you're serving it alongside a spicy curry or using it as a base for a quick pizza, this naan recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Most of the ingredients for this naan recipe are common pantry staples, but you might need to pick up plain yogurt if you don't usually keep it on hand. The yogurt helps to create a tender and slightly tangy dough. Additionally, make sure you have olive oil for the dough, which adds a nice richness and helps to keep the naan soft.

Ingredients For Naan Recipe
Flour: The base of the dough, providing structure and texture.
Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps with browning.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of the naan.
Baking powder: Acts as a leavening agent to make the naan fluffy.
Olive oil: Adds richness and keeps the dough soft.
Water: Helps to bring the dough together and activate the baking powder.
Plain yogurt: Adds moisture and a slight tang to the dough.
Technique Tip for Making Naan
When rolling out the dough, make sure to dust your surface and rolling pin with a bit of flour to prevent sticking. This will help you achieve a smooth, even oval shape for your naan.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, making the naan healthier.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: For those with gluten intolerance, a gluten-free flour blend can be used to achieve a similar texture.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and a slight floral note to the naan.
sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a unique sweetness and a hint of maple flavor.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can enhance the flavor with its mineral-rich content.
salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has larger grains and can provide a different texture and flavor profile.
baking powder - Substitute with yeast: Yeast can be used to give the naan a more traditional, airy texture.
baking powder - Substitute with self-rising flour: Self-rising flour already contains baking powder and salt, simplifying the recipe.
olive oil - Substitute with ghee: Ghee adds a rich, buttery flavor that is traditional in many Indian breads.
olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a subtle coconut flavor and is a good alternative for those avoiding dairy.
warm water - Substitute with milk: Milk can make the naan softer and richer in flavor.
warm water - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps in making the naan tender.
plain yogurt - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is thicker and creamier, which can make the naan richer.
plain yogurt - Substitute with sour cream: Sour cream adds a tangy flavor and a creamy texture to the naan.
Alternative Recipes Similar to Naan
How to Store or Freeze Naan
- Allow the naan to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the bread soggy.
- Place the cooled naan in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. If stacking multiple pieces, place a piece of parchment paper between each to prevent sticking.
- Store the naan at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
- For freezing, wrap each naan individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain freshness and prevents freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped naan in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label with the date for easy tracking.
- Freeze the naan for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
- To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the naan on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warm.
- Alternatively, reheat the naan in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until warmed through.
- For a quick reheat, use a microwave. Wrap the naan in a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 20-30 seconds.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the naan in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Place it on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes, or until warm.
Stovetop Method: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Lightly brush the naan with olive oil or butter. Place the naan in the skillet and heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, until it’s warm and slightly crispy.
Microwave Method: Place the naan on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Microwave on high for 20-30 seconds. Check and add more time if needed.
Toaster Method: If you have a toaster oven, you can place the naan directly on the rack. Toast on a low setting for 1-2 minutes, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning.
Steam Method: Bring a pot of water to a boil and place a steaming basket over it. Wrap the naan in a clean kitchen towel and place it in the basket. Cover and steam for about 2-3 minutes, or until warm.
Essential Tools for Making Naan
Large bowl: Use this to combine the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
Measuring spoons: These are essential for accurately measuring the sugar, salt, and baking powder.
Measuring cups: Use these to measure the all-purpose flour, warm water, and plain yogurt.
Wooden spoon: This will help you mix the ingredients until a dough forms.
Clean surface: You'll need this for kneading the dough until it becomes smooth.
Plastic wrap or kitchen towel: Use this to cover the dough while it rests for 30 minutes.
Knife or dough cutter: This will help you divide the dough into 8 equal parts.
Rolling pin: Use this to roll each dough ball into a flat oval shape.
Skillet: A medium-high heat skillet is necessary for cooking the naan.
Spatula: This will help you flip the naan while cooking to ensure both sides are golden brown.
How to Save Time on Making Naan
Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and mix dry ingredients the night before to save time.
Use a stand mixer: Let a stand mixer do the kneading for you, reducing manual effort.
Preheat the skillet: Start heating your skillet while rolling out the dough to streamline cooking.
Batch rolling: Roll out all dough balls before cooking to maintain a smooth workflow.
Use a food processor: Quickly mix the dough using a food processor for faster results.
Naan Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 2 tablespoon Olive oil
- 0.5 cup Warm water
- 0.25 cup Plain yogurt
Instructions
- 1. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
- 2. Add olive oil, warm water, and yogurt. Mix until a dough forms.
- 3. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- 4. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- 5. Divide the dough into 8 equal parts and roll each into a ball.
- 6. Roll out each ball into a flat oval shape using a rolling pin.
- 7. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each naan for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
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