Ingredients

1/4 cup warm water

2 teaspoons granulated sugar

1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast or instant, rapid rise

3/4 cup warm milk

3/4 cup Greek yogurt or natural plain yogurt

1/4 cup vegetable oil plus 2 tablespoons extra for cooking

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups plain flour plus extra for dusting

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons butter, melted (for garlic butter topping)

2 cloves garlic, minced (for garlic butter topping)

1 teaspoon fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture bubbles on top.

Step 2: Add the warm milk, yogurt, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, minced garlic, flour, baking powder, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix with your hands until the dough comes together.

Step 3: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead with floured hands for 3 to 5 minutes until smooth.

Step 4: Lightly grease a bowl with vegetable oil, place the dough inside, and cover with plastic wrap. Let it rest at room temperature for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Divide the dough into 10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten with a rolling pin into an oval about 6 inches long and 1/8 inch thick. Dust with flour as needed.

Step 6: Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and grease it lightly with 1/2 teaspoon of the extra oil.

Step 7: Place one naan on the skillet. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until bubbles form on the top, brushing the top with a little oil while cooking.

Step 8: Flip the naan and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until golden spots appear on the bottom. Remove and wrap in a clean kitchen towel.

Step 9: Repeat the cooking process with remaining naan, keeping them wrapped in the towel to stay warm.

Step 10: For the garlic butter topping, mix melted butter and minced garlic. Brush each naan with the garlic butter and sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use Greek yogurt for a richer texture or any plain yogurt as a lighter alternative.

For a smokier flavor, cook the naan over a high flame or under a broiler briefly after cooking in the skillet.

Add finely chopped green chilies or nigella seeds to the dough for extra flavor twists.

Substitute butter with ghee for a traditional taste and aroma.

FAQs

Can I make naan without yeast?

While yeast helps create the classic fluffy texture, you can use baking powder alone, though the naan might be less airy and slightly denser.

How do I keep naan soft after cooking?

Wrapping cooked naan in a clean kitchen towel helps retain moisture and softness. Applying garlic butter while still warm also contributes to a tender, flavorful result.