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Soft and Chewy Homemade Naan Bread (Skillet Recipe)

Close-up of a stack of freshly made, soft naan bread recipe pieces with golden-brown charred spots.

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Make soft, chewy naan bread at home using a simple skillet method. This recipe requires no tandoor and produces excellent results quickly.

Ingredients

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  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Combine the warm water and sugar in a large bowl. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Stir the salt, yogurt, and oil into the yeast mixture.
  3. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Punch the dough down gently and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into an oval or teardrop shape, about 1/8 inch thick.
  7. Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until very hot. Do not add oil to the pan.
  8. Place one piece of rolled dough onto the hot, dry skillet. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until bubbles form on the surface and the underside is lightly browned.
  9. Flip the naan and cook the second side for about 1 minute until cooked through and slightly charred in spots.
  10. Remove the cooked naan from the skillet. Brush immediately with melted butter mixed with minced garlic.
  11. Repeat with the remaining dough pieces. Serve warm.

Notes

  • For extra soft naan, cover the cooked pieces with a clean kitchen towel while you cook the rest.
  • If you prefer a less garlicky flavor, use plain melted butter for brushing instead of adding garlic.
  • If your dough does not rise, check the temperature of your water; it may have been too hot and killed the yeast.

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