Mastering the Art of Naan Bread: A Step-by-Step Guide
8
servings1
hour30
minutes25
minutes251
kcalNaan, a flavorful expedition into Indian gastronomy, tantalizes taste buds with its exquisite blend of textures and flavors
Ingredients
2 tsp of active dry yeast
1 teaspoon of sugar
1/2 cup of warm water
2 1/2 to 3 cups of flour, with the amount divided
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 cup of olive oil
1/3 cup of plain yogurt
1 large egg
Directions
- In a small bowl, blend the dry active yeast, sugar, and warm water. Stir until fully dissolved, and let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes frothy on the surface. Once it’s frothy, whisk in the olive oil, plain yogurt, and the large egg until the mixture is well-combined.
- At this stage, transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for approximately 3 minutes, adding small amounts of flour as needed to prevent sticking. You’ll use between 2.5 to 3 cups of flour in total. The dough should have a smooth and very soft texture, but it should not be sticky. Be cautious not to add excessive flour while kneading, as this can make the dough overly dry and rigid.
- Cover the dough loosely and allow it to rise until it doubles in size (approximately 1 hour). After rising, gently flatten the dough into a disc and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Mold each section into a petite sphere.
- Heat a sizable and robust skillet over medium heat. One by one, roll out each dough ball until it reaches a thickness of about 1/4 inch or approximately 6 inches in diameter. Place the rolled-out dough on the hot skillet and cook until the bottom turns golden brown and large bubbles form on the surface (as shown in the pictures below). Flip the dough and cook the other side until it’s also golden brown. Stack the cooked flatbreads on a plate and cover them with a towel to keep them warm while you cook the remaining pieces. Serve them as they are or enhance with a coating of melted butter and a sprinkle of herbs!
Naan is a traditional Indian flatbread that has captured the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts worldwide. This beloved bread, with roots tracing back to the Indian subcontinent, is a staple in Indian cuisine and an essential accompaniment to many dishes.
What sets naan apart is its unique combination of flavors and textures. Made from a simple dough of flour, water, yogurt, and a touch of leavening agents like yeast or baking powder, naan is typically cooked in a tandoor, a clay oven. The intense heat of the tandoor imparts a delightful char and smoky flavor to the bread, giving it a slightly crisp exterior while maintaining a soft, chewy interior.
One of the most delightful aspects of naan is its versatility. It comes in various flavors and styles, such as plain naan, garlic naan, butter naan, and more. These variations can complement a wide range of dishes, from creamy curries to savory kebabs. The fluffy and slightly chewy texture makes it an ideal utensil for scooping up sauces and sopping up flavorful gravies.
Naan is more than just a side dish; it’s a cultural symbol and a culinary delight. Whether enjoyed in the bustling streets of Mumbai, the quaint villages of Punjab, or a trendy Indian restaurant in the heart of New York City, naan is a testament to the rich and diverse world of Indian cuisine, where each bite tells a story of tradition, taste, and the love of food.
