Understanding Naan at an Indian Restaurant: Types, Preparation, and Served Dishes

Naan is a staple item at any Indian restaurant, known for its soft and chewy texture. This article delves into the details of what you will receive when you order naan, the traditional preparation method, and the various curries it is typically served with.

What is Naan?

Naan is a type of Indian flatbread, traditionally made from a mixture of refined flour, milk, salt, soda, and leavening agents. It is most commonly cooked in a tandoor, a clay oven, giving it a unique charred exterior and fluffy interior. The dough is shaped into cylindrical rolls or flat discs before being baked in the oven, resulting in a bread that is distinctively flavorful and creamy.

Naan's Flavor and Texture

The distinctive flavor and texture of naan are largely due to its ingredients, which include white flour, yeast, and yogurt. These ingredients give naan a soft, chewy texture with a subtle tang from the yogurt. This makes it an excellent accompaniment to various Indian dishes, providing a break from the richness of curries and other heavy foods. You may also enjoy naan with toppings such as garlic butter, herbs, or other flavorings.

How Naan is Prepared

The traditional method of preparing naan involves mixing refined flour with milk, salt, soda, and a leavening agent. The dough is left to rise before shaping it into small discs or rolls. It is then cooked in a tandoor, a clay oven, which imparts a slightly charred exterior and a fluffy interior. The key to a perfect naan is the high heat of the tandoor, which ensures a perfectly charred and soft texture.

Common Dishes Served with Naan

While naan is often served with Indian curries, it is not typically a standalone dish. When you order naan, you will most likely get a vegetable curry to complement the bread. The most frequently ordered curries include Masala Paneer (steamed cottage cheese in a rich tomato-based sauce) and Mixed Vegetables Curry (a blend of different vegetables in a mild, creamy sauce).

Some Indian restaurants offer naan in combos, such as:

CTM (Chicken Tikka Masala) with Naan Kebabs with Naan Vegetable Curry with Naan

In many fast-food restaurants in India, a vegetable curry or Dal Tadka (a spicy lentil dish) is served by default with naan. Therefore, when ordering naan, it is advisable to also order a vegetable curry to fully experience the flavors and textures of a traditional Indian meal.

The Order Taker's Perspective

When ordering naan, it is not uncommon for the server to ask additional questions to understand your preferences. This is because naan is often paired with other dishes rather than being a standalone item. In most cases, a sensible order taker will gently probe to find out what else you would like to order along with the naan. Ordering naan as an appetizer, akin to bread and butter in Western restaurants, is also a common practice, especially when taking takeaway.

Ultimately, the type of food you will receive with your naan depends on the restaurant and your specific order. If you want a complete and satisfying meal, you may need to add a vegetable curry or similar dish to your order. Exploring the flavors and textures of naan in a traditional Indian setting can be a delightful culinary experience.

Key Takeaways:

Naan is a traditional Indian flatbread made from refined flour, milk, salt, and a leavening agent. It is typically cooked in a tandoor, a clay oven, resulting in a charred exterior and a fluffy interior. Naan is often served with vegetable curries, with the most commonly ordered being Paneer Butter Masala and Mixed Vegetables Curry. It is advisable to order a matched pair, such as a vegetable curry, to enjoy a complete and satisfying Indian meal.

Explore these delightful flavors and enhancing your dining experience with naan and its complementary curries at your next visit to an Indian restaurant.