Name: The Best Easy Garlic Naan Bread Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 package (0.25 oz) active dry yeast or instant yeast; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 cup warm water (110°F); 1 teaspoon salt; 4 tablespoons plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons oil or ghee; 3 tablespoons minced garlic; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro or parsley

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Introduction

Garlic naan bread is a soft, flavorful flatbread that’s perfect for pairing with Indian dishes or enjoying on its own. This easy recipe guides you through making fluffy naan infused with garlic and fresh herbs right in your kitchen.

The image shows three pieces of flatbread stacked on top of each other on a metal board, placed on a white marbled surface. Each flatbread has a slightly irregular round shape with a soft and puffy texture, light golden-brown spots with some darker char marks scattered unevenly across the surface, and small green herb pieces sprinkled on top for garnish. The flatbreads appear thick and fluffy with visible air pockets and layers. In the blurry background, there is a gray cloth and some green herbs. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 package (0.25 oz) active dry yeast or instant yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
1 cup warm water (110°F)
1 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons plain yogurt
2 tablespoons oil or ghee
3 tablespoons minced garlic
2 tablespoons melted butter
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro or parsley

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, combine yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let it sit for 10 minutes, until frothy.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, yogurt, and oil.
Step 3: Add the activated yeast mixture to the flour mixture, then knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth.
Step 4: Cover the dough and let it rise for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 5: Divide the dough into 8 equal balls and roll each into an oval shape about 8 inches long.
Step 6: Heat a greased skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each naan for about 1 minute on each side, until bubbly and golden brown.
Step 7: Mix the minced garlic with melted butter, then brush this garlic butter over the cooked naans.
Step 8: Sprinkle with salt and garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, use ghee instead of oil and melted butter.
Try adding a pinch of nigella seeds or sesame seeds to the dough for extra aroma.
You can substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder if you prefer a milder taste.
Cook the naan in a cast iron skillet for the best heat distribution and texture.

Storage

Store leftover naan in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, warm on a skillet or in a toaster oven until soft and heated through.

How to Serve

A single round flatbread with a puffy texture and browned spots is shown lying flat in a dark skillet with a long handle. The flatbread has slightly charred golden-brown patches and some lighter cream-colored areas, giving it a toasted look. There are a few small green cilantro leaves placed on top near the center, adding a fresh touch of color. The skillet is resting on a wooden board that contrasts with the white marbled background underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make naan without yeast?

Yes, you can make a quick naan using baking powder instead of yeast, but it will have a different texture and flavor, closer to a flatbread rather than traditional naan.

Can I bake naan instead of cooking on a skillet?

Absolutely. You can bake naan on a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet in a hot oven (about 500°F) for 4-5 minutes. For best results, broil briefly to get a slightly charred effect similar to skillet cooking.