Homemade Garlic Naan: 5 Ways to Evoke Pure Joy

Name: Homemade Garlic Naan: 5 Ways to Evoke Pure Joy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 2 tablespoons yogurt; 3/4 cup warm water; 3 tablespoons minced garlic; 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro; 2 tablespoons melted butter

By:

Christina R. Jones

October 30, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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There’s something magical about pulling a warm, fluffy piece of homemade garlic naan from the skillet. The aroma of sizzling garlic and fresh herbs wafts through the kitchen, instantly making me feel at home. This naan is more than just a side dish; it’s a comforting hug of flavor that pairs beautifully with your favorite curry or even just a bit of yogurt dip. I remember the first time I made this recipe—my friends were over for dinner, and as soon as they took a bite, their eyes lit up with delight. It was a moment of pure joy, watching them savor each bite, tearing pieces off, and dunking into rich sauces. Trust me, the softness and unique taste of this garlic naan will elevate any meal. Plus, it’s so easy to make! With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you’ll have homemade garlic naan that rivals your favorite Indian restaurant. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious flatbread that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!

homemade garlic naan - detail 1

Ingredients for Homemade Garlic Naan

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 tablespoons yogurt
3/4 cup warm water
3 tablespoons minced garlic
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
2 tablespoons melted butter

How to Prepare Homemade Garlic Naan

Making homemade garlic naan is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with tantalizing aromas! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have delicious, soft naan ready in no time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, grab a large mixing bowl and combine your dry ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Give them a good mix with a whisk or a fork to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

Next, it’s time to add the wet ingredients! Pour in 2 tablespoons of yogurt and 3/4 cup of warm water. I always use warm water (not hot!) because it helps activate the yeast and makes the dough nice and soft. Now, it’s time to get your hands in there! Knead the mixture until it forms a soft, pliable dough—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour, but don’t go overboard!

Once your dough is ready, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for 1 hour. This resting period is crucial as it allows the gluten to develop, making your naan fluffy and tender.

After the hour is up, punch down the dough gently to release any air bubbles, then divide it into small balls, approximately the size of a golf ball. Now, roll each ball into an oval shape—don’t worry about making it perfect; just aim for about 1/4 inch thickness.

Here comes the fun part! Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of chopped cilantro on top of each flattened dough piece. Gently press them into the surface to ensure they stick. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat, and when it’s hot, place your naan in the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and slightly charred. Brush each piece with melted butter right before serving for that extra touch of flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade garlic naan is not just another bread; it’s a culinary experience that brings joy to every meal. Here’s why you’ll adore making it:

Incredible Flavor: The combination of garlic and fresh cilantro infuses each bite with a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with curries and stews.
Soft and Fluffy: The texture is simply divine! Each piece is soft, pillowy, and perfect for tearing off and sharing.
Easy to Make: With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have homemade naan ready in no time, making it great for weeknight dinners.
Versatile: Serve it alongside your favorite Indian dishes, use it to scoop up yogurt dip, or enjoy it as a stand-alone snack—it’s delicious any way you slice it!

Trust me, once you try this homemade garlic naan, it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Tips for Success

Getting your homemade garlic naan just right can feel like a little dance in the kitchen. Here are my top tips to help you nail it every time!

Kneading with Care: Don’t rush the kneading process! Aim for about 5-7 minutes until the dough feels smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add just a sprinkle of flour—too much can make it dense.
Resting Time: Letting the dough rest for that full hour is key to achieving that fluffy texture. It helps the gluten relax, making your naan softer and more pliable.
Heat Control: Make sure your skillet is nice and hot before adding the naan. If it’s not hot enough, the naan won’t get that beautiful char. Just a couple of minutes on each side should do the trick!
Garlic Level: If you love garlic like I do, feel free to adjust the amount! You can add more if you want a stronger flavor, but I recommend starting with the 3 tablespoons to find your ideal balance.

With these tips, you’ll be whipping up perfect homemade garlic naan that everyone will rave about!

Nutritional Information for Homemade Garlic Naan

When you indulge in homemade garlic naan, you’re not just enjoying a delicious treat; you’re also mindful of what’s in it! Here’s a quick overview of the estimated nutritional information per serving (1 naan):

Calories: 180
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 200mg
Sugar: 1g

These values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy your homemade garlic naan knowing it’s not only tasty but also a delightful addition to your meal!

FAQ About Homemade Garlic Naan

Got questions about making homemade garlic naan? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that may pop up while you’re whipping up this delicious flatbread.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Absolutely! You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but keep in mind that the texture may be a bit denser. You might need to adjust the water a little, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.
How can I make garlic naan without yogurt? If you don’t have yogurt on hand, you can use buttermilk or even a splash of milk with a squeeze of lemon juice as a substitute. This will keep the naan soft and flavorful!
What’s the best way to store leftover naan? After your homemade garlic naan cools, wrap it in foil or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It can be stored at room temperature for a day or in the fridge for up to three days.
Can I freeze homemade garlic naan? Yes! Once cooled, you can wrap each naan in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for about a month. Just reheat them in a skillet or the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!

Now that you have the answers, you’re all set to make the best homemade garlic naan ever!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your homemade garlic naan ready, let’s talk about the best ways to enjoy it! This delicious flatbread pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes. I absolutely love serving it alongside a rich, creamy butter chicken or a fragrant vegetable curry. The naan is perfect for scooping up those flavorful sauces!

If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try it with a refreshing yogurt dip or a tangy mint chutney—oh, the flavors are just divine! You can even enjoy it as a delightful wrap for grilled meats or roasted veggies. Trust me, once you start experimenting, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy your garlic naan!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover homemade garlic naan is super easy! Once the naan has cooled completely, wrap it in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. You can store it at room temperature for up to a day or in the refrigerator for about three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the naan! Just wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay good for about a month.

When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the naan in a hot skillet for a minute on each side, or pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll have warm, soft naan that tastes almost as good as fresh!