Garlic Naan Recipe: A Fragrant Twist to Classic Indian Flatbread

Introduction:

Garlic naan, a popular Indian flatbread, is a delectable and versatile accompaniment to a wide array of dishes. Its soft and chewy texture, combined with the aromatic essence of garlic, makes it a favorite among food enthusiasts. Why settle for store-bought naan when you can easily recreate this flavorful delight at home? In this article, we'll guide you through a simple yet authentic garlic naan recipe that will elevate your home-cooked Indian meals to a whole new level.

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Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon sugar

2 tablespoons plain yogurt

2 tablespoons melted ghee (clarified butter)

1/2 cup warm milk

2 cloves garlic, minced

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Extra ghee or butter (for brushing)

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.

Make a well in the center and add yogurt, melted ghee, and minced garlic.

Gradually incorporate warm milk into the mixture, kneading the dough until it becomes soft and pliable.

Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 2 hours, allowing it to rise.

Divide and Shape the Naan:

After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal-sized portions.

Preheat your oven to the highest setting or use a pizza stone on the stovetop.

Roll each portion into an oval or round shape, about 1/4 inch thick.

Cooking on the Stovetop:

Heat a cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat.

Place the rolled naan onto the hot surface and cook for about 1-2 minutes or until bubbles start to appear.

Flip the naan and cook the other side until golden brown spots develop.

Cooking in the Oven:

If using an oven, place the rolled naan directly on the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.

Bake for 4-5 minutes or until the naan puffs up and turns golden brown.

Finishing Touches:

Brush the cooked naan with melted ghee or butter for an extra layer of flavor.

Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve warm.

Tips and Variations:

Experiment with different toppings like nigella seeds or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

For a cheesy twist, sprinkle grated cheese on the naan before cooking.

Serve garlic naan with your favorite Indian dishes, such as curry or tikka masala, or use it as a wrap for kebabs.

Conclusion:

Homemade garlic naan is a delightful addition to any Indian-inspired meal, and making it from scratch is both rewarding and surprisingly simple. Impress your family and friends with this delicious recipe, and enjoy the rich flavors and soft texture of freshly baked garlic naan at home.