Easy Homemade Naan Bread

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Soft, pillowy, and irresistibly chewy, this Easy Homemade Naan Bread brings the warm comfort of your favorite Indian restaurant right to your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and a hot skillet, you can create this beautifully blistered flatbread at home—perfect for scooping up curries, wrapping around grilled meats, or simply enjoying with a drizzle of garlic butter.

Unlike many breads, naan doesn’t require an oven or complex shaping. The magic happens in minutes right on your stovetop, where the dough puffs up and chars in spots, creating that signature texture and flavor. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or an impromptu feast, naan always delivers.

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What Type of Flour Works Best for Naan Bread?

All-purpose flour is the ideal choice for homemade naan. It has just the right protein content to yield a tender but structured dough that bubbles beautifully in the pan. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can mix in some whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, but expect a slightly denser result.

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Ingredients for the Easy Homemade Naan Bread

• All-Purpose Flour: The base of the dough; gives naan its structure while keeping it soft.
• Plain Yogurt: Adds moisture and a subtle tang, helping the dough stay supple and flavorful.
• Warm Water: Activates the yeast and brings the dough together.
• Active Dry Yeast: The leavening agent that creates those signature bubbles and softness.
• Sugar: Feeds the yeast and enhances browning in the skillet.
• Salt: Balances the flavor.
• Olive Oil or Melted Butter: Adds richness and prevents the dough from drying out.
• Minced Garlic and Chopped Fresh Cilantro (optional): Perfect for brushing on top after cooking for an extra kick of flavor.

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How To Make the Easy Homemade Naan Bread

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This signals that the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Stir in the yogurt and the yeast mixture. Mix until the dough begins to form, then knead on a floured surface for about 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Let It Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Naan

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 6-8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a ball, then use a rolling pin to flatten them into ovals or tear-drop shapes about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 5: Cook on the Stovetop

Heat a cast-iron skillet or nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Place one piece of rolled dough onto the hot skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbles form and the bottom is golden. Flip and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes. Repeat with remaining dough.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

Brush the warm naan with melted butter or olive oil. For extra flavor, add minced garlic or sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top while the naan is still warm.

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Serving and Storing Your Naan Bread

Naan is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm with Indian curries, stews, grilled meats, or dips like hummus or baba ganoush. It can even double as a quick pizza base or sandwich wrap. The slightly charred flavor and soft, chewy interior make it irresistible straight from the skillet.

To store leftovers, let the naan cool completely and place it in an airtight container or zip-top bag. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat on a skillet or wrap in foil and warm in the oven for best results. You can also freeze naan for up to 2 months.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make naan without yeast?

Yes, you can substitute baking powder for yeast, though the texture will be less airy. Use about 1 teaspoon of baking powder for every cup of flour.

Why is my naan not puffing up?

Your skillet might not be hot enough. Ensure it’s thoroughly heated before adding the dough. Also, make sure the dough is not rolled too thin.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt?

Absolutely! Just thin it with a little water to mimic the consistency of plain yogurt before mixing it into the dough.

How do I make garlic naan?

Mix minced garlic into your melted butter or olive oil and brush it on immediately after cooking. You can also press some garlic directly into the dough before cooking.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours after the first rise. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and cooking.

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Want More Bread Ideas?

If you love this easy homemade naan bread, you’ll probably enjoy these other cozy favorites from the kitchen:

• Homemade Flaky Croissants for buttery layers worth the wait.
• Best Fluffy Pancake Recipe to kickstart your mornings.
• Soft and Fluffy Homemade Naan Bread if you’re craving another naan variation.
• 2-Ingredient Pineapple Cake for an effortless, sweet finish.
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta to pair perfectly with your naan.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

Save this recipe to your Pinterest bread board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you brush yours with garlic butter or keep it plain? Did you serve it with curry or something unique?

I love seeing how others bring these recipes to life. Share your twist or questions—let’s inspire each other to bake boldly.

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