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Buttery Garlic Naan

Homemade buttery garlic naan that is soft, puffy, and full of flavor, perfect for pairing with your favorite dishes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 8 naans
Course: Bread, Side
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Naan Dough
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup warm water between 38 and 43 degrees Celsius or 100 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour plus extra for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 cup plain full-fat yogurt room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or neutral oil
  • 1 large egg room temperature
For the Garlic Butter Topping
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 to 5 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley finely chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Cooking
  • 1 small amount neutral oil or butter for greasing the pan

Method
 

Step 1: Activate the Yeast
  1. Combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast in a small bowl or jug. Stir gently to dissolve the sugar. Let this mixture sit undisturbed for 8 to 10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Make a well in the center, then pour in the foamy yeast mixture, yogurt, olive oil, and egg. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
  1. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and slightly tacky. Add flour if necessary, but keep it slightly sticky.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
  1. Lightly oil a mixing bowl, place the kneaded dough inside, and cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let it rise for 1 hour in a warm spot until doubled in size.
Step 5: Divide and Shape the Dough
  1. Punch down the dough, divide it into 8 equal pieces, and roll each into a smooth ball. Roll each ball into an oval or teardrop shape about 6 to 8 inches long.
Step 6: Cook the Naan
  1. Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy pan over high heat. Brush with oil or butter. Cook each naan for 60 to 90 seconds on one side until golden, then flip and cook the other side.
Finish
  1. Remove from pan and brush with garlic butter immediately. Keep warm by covering with a towel.

Notes

For best results, ensure your pan is extremely hot before cooking and don't skip the rise time. Use full-fat yogurt for better flavor and texture.