Butter naan is a delightful Indian flatbread that is soft, pillowy, and enriched with butter, making it a perfect accompaniment to various curries and dishes. Its slightly charred exterior and tender interior create a wonderful contrast in texture, while the buttery flavor elevates any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it with a spicy curry or simply dipping it in yogurt, butter naan is a beloved staple that brings warmth and comfort to the table.
Ingredients:
To make approximately 4 servings of butter naan, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (preferably full-fat)
- 1/2 cup warm water (adjust as needed)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (plus more for brushing)
- 1 tablespoon oil (optional, for added softness)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for garlic naan)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Whisk together until well blended.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Add the yogurt and melted butter. Gradually pour in the warm water while mixing with your other hand or a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
- Rest the Dough: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out.
Step 2: Shape the Naan
- Divide the Dough: After resting, punch down the dough to release air. Divide it into 4 equal portions and shape each into a ball.
- Roll Out: On a floured surface, take one dough ball and flatten it slightly with your fingers. Using a rolling pin, roll it out into an oval or tear shape, about 1/4 inch thick. Dust with flour as needed to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Cook the Naan
- Preheat the Pan: Heat a non-stick skillet or tandoor over medium-high heat until hot. If using a skillet, you can add a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Naan: Carefully place the rolled naan onto the hot skillet. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface. Flip the naan and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown and slightly charred.
- Brush with Butter: Once cooked, remove the naan from the skillet and immediately brush one side with melted butter. If desired, sprinkle with garlic powder and fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Repeat: Repeat the rolling and cooking process for the remaining dough balls.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve Warm: Serve the butter naan warm, garnished with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
Butter naan pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including:
- Curries: Serve with classic dishes like butter chicken, paneer tikka masala, or chana masala.
- Dips: Enjoy with yogurt-based dips like raita or a spicy chutney.
- Beverages: Complement your meal with a refreshing mango lassi or a spiced chai.
Nutritional Information:
Butter naan is a tasty treat that provides a good source of carbohydrates and some protein from the yogurt. While it is higher in calories due to the butter, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Here’s a rough nutritional breakdown per naan (without additional toppings):
- Calories: Approximately 210
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQs
- Can I make butter naan without yogurt?
- Yes, you can substitute yogurt with milk or buttermilk, but the texture may vary slightly. You can also use dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
- How can I make naan gluten-free?
- To make gluten-free naan, use a gluten-free flour blend. Adjust the liquid as needed to achieve the right dough consistency.
- Can I freeze butter naan?
- Yes, you can freeze cooked naan. Place parchment paper between each naan to prevent sticking, then store in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in a skillet or microwave when ready to eat.
- What can I do if my naan is too tough?
- If your naan turns out tough, it may be due to over-kneading or rolling it too thin. Ensure you knead just until smooth and roll to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Can I add toppings to my naan?
- Absolutely! You can customize your naan by adding toppings like minced garlic, herbs, or even cheese before cooking.
Conclusion
Making butter naan at home is a rewarding experience that can elevate your meals in just under 30 minutes. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this delicious flatbread that is perfect for scooping up your favorite dishes. Enjoy the warm, buttery goodness of homemade naan, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and toppings to make it your own!