How to Make Indian Naan and Other Delicious Breads

How to Make Indian Naan and Other Delicious Breads

Indian naan is a beloved flatbread that complements a variety of dishes, from curries to tandoori meats. This article will guide you through the process of making authentic naan, as well as explore other popular Indian breads such as roti and paratha.

Ingredients for Naan:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or melted ghee
  • Optional: minced garlic, chopped cilantro, or nigella seeds for flavor

Steps to Make Naan:

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture, yogurt, and olive oil. Stir until it begins to form a soft dough.
  3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little more flour.
  4. Let it Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  5. Shape the Naan: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it out with a rolling pin to your desired thickness.
  6. Cook the Naan: Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place the rolled naan in the skillet. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until bubbles form, then flip and cook for another minute. For an authentic taste, you can place the naan under a broiler for a few seconds after cooking.
  7. Add Flavor: Brush with melted butter or ghee and sprinkle with garlic, cilantro, or nigella seeds, as desired.

Making Roti:

Roti is another popular unleavened bread made from whole wheat flour. Here’s how to make it:

  • 2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Warm water (as needed)
  1. Combine and Knead: Mix flour and salt in a bowl, then gradually add warm water until you form a soft dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes.
  2. Rest: Cover the dough and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Roll and Cook: Divide dough into balls, roll into thin circles, and cook on a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes on each side. Optionally, puff the roti directly over an open flame for a softer texture.

Making Paratha:

Paratha is a flaky, layered flatbread that can be made plain or stuffed with fillings such as potatoes or paneer. Here’s a quick guide:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Water (as needed)
  • Ghee for spreading
  1. Prepare the Dough: Combine flour and salt, then add water to form a soft dough. Knead and let it rest.
  2. Shape and Stuff (if desired): Roll out a piece, smear with ghee, fold several times to create layers, and then shape it back into a circle. For stuffed parathas, add your filling before rolling.
  3. Cook: