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Ultimate Homemade Naan

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Ultimate Homemade Naan is a soft, pillowy flatbread with charred blisters and a buttery finish—made easily at home in a hot skillet to replicate the flavors and textures of traditional tandoor-baked naan.

Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)
  • 1 tsp instant or active dry yeast
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1/3 cup plain yogurt (room temperature)
  • 2/3 cup warm water (approx. 100°F / 40°C)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (optional, for richness)
  • 2 tbsp melted butter or ghee (for brushing)
  • Optional toppings: minced garlic, chopped cilantro, nigella or sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. If using active dry yeast, mix it with warm water and sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. If using instant yeast, skip activation and combine directly.
  2. In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, sugar, yogurt, oil (if using), and yeast mixture (or water if using instant yeast). Mix until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead on a lightly floured surface or in a mixer with dough hook for 5–10 minutes until dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled.
  5. Punch down dough, divide into 6 equal pieces, and roll into balls. Let rest 10–15 minutes covered to relax the gluten.
  6. Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy pan over high heat until very hot (light smoke may appear).
  7. Roll each dough ball into a teardrop or oval shape about 1/8-inch thick. Dust lightly with flour as needed.
  8. Place naan into hot skillet. Cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbles form and underside has golden spots. Flip and cook another minute. Optionally flip again briefly for extra charring.
  9. Remove and brush immediately with melted butter or ghee. Sprinkle with garlic, herbs, or seeds if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Yogurt adds moisture and tenderness to the naan.For bubbly, blistered naan, ensure the skillet is very hot before cooking.Wet toppings like garlic or seeds can be added before cooking (press lightly into dough) or after via butter brushing.Substitute part of flour with whole wheat for a more rustic texture.Store in a sealed container once slightly cooled to keep soft.

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