Embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant streets of India with Buttery Garlic Naan Bread, a quintessential accompaniment to traditional Indian cuisine. This irresistible flatbread, known for its soft texture, buttery flavor, and aromatic garlic infusion, is a beloved staple that enhances any meal with its savory allure. From the moment it emerges from the tandoor oven to the first blissful bite, Buttery Garlic Naan Bread captivates the senses and transports you to a world of exotic flavors and fragrances.

At the heart of Buttery Garlic Naan Bread lies a delicate balance of simple yet flavorful ingredients. The dough, made from flour, yeast, yogurt, and a touch of sugar, is kneaded to perfection and allowed to rest, resulting in a soft and pliable texture. What sets this naan apart is the addition of garlic-infused butter, which is brushed generously over the surface before baking, infusing each bite with a rich and savory essence that is truly irresistible.

The preparation of Buttery Garlic Naan Bread is as much a ritual as it is a culinary art. Traditionally cooked in a tandoor oven, the dough is slapped against the scorching hot walls, where it puffs up and develops a slightly charred exterior. The result is a naan that is both tender and chewy, with a subtle smokiness that adds depth to its flavor profile. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with aromatic curries, this naan is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.

The versatility of Buttery Garlic Naan Bread knows no bounds. While it is often served alongside classic Indian dishes such as butter chicken or tikka masala, it can also be enjoyed as a standalone snack or used as a vessel for creating delicious wraps and sandwiches. Its buttery richness and aromatic garlic infusion make it a favorite among food enthusiasts worldwide, transcending cultural boundaries and delighting palates with its irresistible flavor.

As you savor the warm, buttery goodness of Buttery Garlic Naan Bread, you become immersed in the culinary traditions of India, where food is not just sustenance but a celebration of life and culture. Each bite is a testament to the time-honored techniques and vibrant flavors that define Indian cuisine, inviting you to explore a world of culinary delights. So, whether you’re enjoying it at a bustling street market or in the comfort of your own home, Buttery Garlic Naan Bread promises an unforgettable dining experience that will leave you craving more.

Buttery Garlic Naan Bread

Ingredients

FOR THE DOUGH

• all purpose flour or maida 2 cups
• salt ½ tsp
• sugar 2 tsp
• instant yeast 2 ¼ tsp
• oil 3 tbsp
• warm milk ¾ cup

FOR GARNISHING

• butter for basting
• garlic 2 tbsp, finely chopped
• nigella seeds or black sesame seeds 1 tbsp
• cilantro ¼ cup, chopped

INSTRUCTIONS:

KNEADING THE DOUGH

1. You can either use a stand mixer with a dough attachment or with your hands.
2. Add flour, salt, sugar and yeast. Mix well.
3. Now add oil and milk to knead the dough. If using a stand mixer this process will take about 6 minutes on low speed. If kneading with hands knead about 8 minutes until the dough becomes soft and smooth.

PROOFING THE DOUGH

1. You can either use an Instant Pot Yogurt mode to proof the dough or proof it at room temperature, if the weather is warm. I prefer to use the Instant Pot as it is the perfectly warm environment to cultivate rapid yeast growth.
2. Grease the pot and place the greased dough in the pot.
3. Cover the dough with a wet cloth to prevent the dough from drying out or forming a skin.
4. Place a lid on the pot. If using the Instant Pot, set the Instant Pot to Yogurt mode on Normal Heat for an hour.
5. When your dough is finished proofing ie: doubled in size removed the dough and punch the dough slightly to release the air.

ROLLING THE DOUGH

1. Divide the dough into 8 equal parts and roll them into balls.
2. Take a dough ball and roll it evenly into an oval shape that it 10 inches long and 6 inches wide. The idea is to stretch the dough.
3. Using a brush apply butter on the top surface of the rolled dough.
4. Sprinkle garlic, cilantro and sesame or onions seeds and lightly roll press them.

COOKING THE NAAN

1. Heat a pan, once the pan is hot place the rolled dough on the pan with the sprinkles on the top.
2. Cook for a minute or two until you start seeing the bubbles.
3. Flip the side and cook again for a minute until you start seeing the bubbles again.
4. Brush the cooked naan with butter and keep it aside.
5. Repeat the procedure for the remaining dough.

Serve warm with a curry.
Notes

• Don’t skip kneading the dough or your naan will not have the right texture. Use a stand mixer with a dough hook for ease.
• When you roll out the dough, make sure it stretches slightly, but also make sure you have an even thickness throughout.
• Don’t use too much heat in the pan or you could easily burn the flat bread