There is nothing quite like the warm, pillowy delight of freshly made garlic bread—but when it comes to elevating that experience, the Artisan Garlic Naan Recipe is an absolute game changer. This recipe combines soft, tender dough with the irresistible aroma and flavor of garlic and herbs, perfect for scooping up curries, dipping in chutneys, or enjoying all on its own. The magic lies in its simple, approachable ingredients that come together to create naan that tastes as if it were crafted by a skilled baker with love. This is the kind of bread that turns any meal into a celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with the Artisan Garlic Naan Recipe means gathering a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play an essential role in creating the perfect texture and flavor. These staples work together like old friends, ensuring your naan is soft, flavorful, and beautifully golden.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for soft, elastic dough that bakes up tender and chewy.
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast: Gives the dough lift and lightness for that airy naan texture.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle touch of sweetness.
- ¾ cup warm water: Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough just right.
- ¼ cup plain yogurt: Adds moisture and a slight tanginess that enriches the flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides smoothness and helps keep the naan soft.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the dough.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the bread with that distinctive, mouthwatering garlic aroma.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Brushed on top to add richness and a glossy finish.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant herbal note to finish the naan beautifully.
How to Make Artisan Garlic Naan Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Begin by combining the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast in a small bowl. Let this mixture sit undisturbed for 5 to 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s frothy and bubbly on the surface—a sign that your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic in your dough.
Step 2: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the plain yogurt and olive oil, then pour in the frothy yeast mixture. Stir everything until it starts to come together into a sticky dough that holds but is still soft to the touch.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it with your hands for about 8 to 10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. This step develops gluten, which gives your naan that perfect chew while still being tender.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Lightly oil a clean bowl and place your kneaded dough inside. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and leave it in a warm spot to rise for 1 to 2 hours. The dough should double in size, fluffy and ready for the next stage.
Step 5: Shape the Naan
Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release any air bubbles. Divide it evenly into 6 to 8 pieces, depending on your desired naan size. Roll each piece on a floured surface into an oval shape, roughly ¼ inch thick. This shape is ideal for even cooking and eccentric with classic naan style.
Step 6: Cook the Naan
Heat a dry skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Cook each rolled naan for 1 to 2 minutes on each side. You’ll notice bubbles forming on the surface and golden spots appearing, which means you’re on track for that perfect naan texture and color.
Step 7: Add Garlic Butter and Herbs
While your naan is still hot, mix the melted butter with the minced garlic. Brush this glorious blend over each naan immediately, allowing the warmth to infuse every bite with that unmistakable garlic goodness. Finally, sprinkle your chopped cilantro or parsley on top for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve Artisan Garlic Naan Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or parsley adds brightness, but you can also try a dash of flaky sea salt or nigella seeds for an extra-special touch. Adding a tiny drizzle of melted ghee instead of butter will infuse your naan with subtle nuttiness that complements the garlic beautifully.
Side Dishes
Artisan Garlic Naan pairs wonderfully with fragrant curries, rich dals, and vibrant chutneys. Think creamy butter chicken, tangy tomato chutney, or spicy chickpea curry for a crowd-pleasing meal that feels like a warm hug on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting your naan into smaller wedges and arranging the pieces around a bowl of creamy hummus or yogurt dip for a stylish appetizer. You can also use the naan as a base for flatbread pizzas by adding your favorite toppings, melting cheese on top, and popping it under a broiler for a few minutes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store leftover naan in an airtight container or a zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it soft, place a piece of parchment paper between each naan to prevent sticking and moisture buildup.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap each naan individually in plastic wrap and then place them into a freezer-safe bag. Frozen naan keeps well for up to 2 months and makes a convenient option for quick meals or snacks.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the naan in a hot skillet for a minute or two on each side or pop it in a toaster oven until soft and warmed through. You can also sprinkle a bit of water on the naan before reheating to bring back some moisture and tenderness.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! Using whole wheat flour will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but keep in mind the texture may be a bit denser. You can also try a blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for balance.
What’s the best way to store garlic naan if I want to eat it the next day?
Wrap the naan in foil or place it in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat gently in a skillet to preserve softness. Avoid refrigeration as it can dry out the bread.
Can I make the dough without yogurt?
Yogurt adds moisture and a slight tang, making the naan tender. If you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute with an equal amount of milk or buttermilk, though the flavor may be a bit different.
Is it necessary to use fresh garlic for the garlic butter?
Fresh garlic delivers the best aroma and flavor. If needed, you can use garlic powder as a substitute but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the naan.
Can I bake the naan instead of pan-cooking it?
Yes! Preheat your oven to its highest setting and bake the naan on a hot baking stone or tray for a few minutes until puffed and golden. Pan-cooking offers a traditional char, but the oven works well too.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a recipe that brings bakery-quality naan right into your kitchen, the Artisan Garlic Naan Recipe is your answer. It’s approachable, fun to make, and results in bread that’s bursting with flavor and softness. Whether you’re planning a cozy night in or entertaining friends, this naan will steal the show every time. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this utterly delicious treasure—you won’t regret it!
Print
Artisan Garlic Naan Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
This Artisan Garlic Naan recipe creates soft, fluffy flatbreads infused with aromatic garlic and fresh herbs. Perfectly cooked on the stovetop, these naan breads are ideal for pairing with Indian curries, grilled meats, or enjoyed on their own as a flavorful snack. With a simple yeast-leavened dough that includes yogurt for tenderness, these naans come out with a delightful texture and rich, buttery garlic flavor.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ¾ cup warm water
- ¼ cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
Garlic Butter Topping
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, plain yogurt, and olive oil. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir to form a sticky dough.
- Knead Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Divide and Shape: Punch down the risen dough to release air, then divide it into 6 to 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a flat oval shape about ¼ inch thick.
- Cook Naan: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Place one rolled dough oval into the dry skillet and cook for 1–2 minutes on each side, or until bubbles form and golden brown spots appear.
- Garlic Butter and Garnish: Mix melted butter with minced garlic. As soon as each naan is cooked, brush it generously with the garlic butter and sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use warm water (about 110°F/43°C) to activate the yeast properly.
- Yogurt in the dough helps achieve a tender and soft naan texture.
- Kneading the dough well develops gluten for elasticity and chewiness.
- Cook naan on medium-high heat to ensure it cooks quickly and gets those signature charred spots without drying out.
- Serve naan fresh and warm for best flavor and texture.
- For extra flavor, you can add finely chopped green chilies or nigella seeds to the dough.
