How to Make Delicate Naan at Home Without a Tandoor

Exploring the flavors of India can be as simple as making naan at home! Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this straightforward stovetop recipe will guide you through the process of creating delicious naan that borders on perfection. From preparing the dough to those fluffy, golden-brown naans, this guide will walk you through every step without needing a tandoor. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon instant yeast 2 tablespoons yogurt, plain 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter 3/4 cup warm water, about 110°F or 43°C

Optional Toppings

Minced garlic Chopped cilantro Sesame seeds

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Add the yogurt and olive oil or melted butter to the dry ingredients. Gradually add warm water while mixing until a soft dough forms. You may not need all the water, so add it slowly.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Divide and Shape

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 6-8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten it slightly with your hands.

Roll Out the Naan

On a floured surface, roll each piece into an oval or circle about 1/4-inch thick. You can sprinkle flour as needed to prevent sticking.

Cook the Naan

Heat a skillet or frying pan preferably cast iron over medium-high heat. Ensure it's hot before adding the naan. Place one naan in the hot skillet. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until bubbles form on the surface, then flip it over and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. If desired, brush the cooked naan with melted butter or ghee and sprinkle with garlic or herbs.

Keep Warm

Transfer the naan to a plate and cover it with a kitchen towel to keep warm while you cook the remaining pieces.

Serve

Serve the naan warm with your favorite curry stew or dip. Enjoy the rich, traditional flavors of naan without the need for a tandoor!

Tips

You can add herbs or spices to the dough for extra flavor. For a slightly different texture, substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. If you want to use a baking method, preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C). Place the rolled naan on a baking sheet and bake for 3-4 minutes until puffed and golden.

Explore the delicious world of naan without a tandoor! Follow the simple steps above and start cooking today. Bon appétit!