Easy Naan Recipe
When I’m crunched for time, I don’t bother making a yeasted dough for naan!
Recipe:
•2 cups self rising flour
•1 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• Optional: add salt to taste, about 1/2 tablespoon.
Preheat a cast iron or thicker pan at high heat. Mix flour and yogurt until you get a well formed dough. Divide into 8-10 balls. Roll out each dough ball until about 1/2 inch thickness. Cook in cast iron, flipping once you see bubbles forming, about 1 minute. After you flip, cook for an additional minute or until bubbles have those beautiful brown spots!
💡If you don’t have self rising flour, you can use regular flour and add 1 tablespoon of baking powder. This is what I usually do because I hardly ever have self rising flour!
Naan is a traditional Indian flatbread that is typically made using yeast to create a soft and fluffy texture. However, when time is limited, this easy naan recipe using only two main ingredients—self-rising flour and Greek yogurt—provides a quick and effective alternative without compromising on taste or texture. Self-rising flour is a convenient choice because it already contains baking powder and salt, which acts as the leavening agent in place of yeast. For those who don’t have self-rising flour on hand, an excellent substitution is to combine regular all-purpose flour with 1 tablespoon of baking powder, as the recipe suggests. This mix will help the dough rise slightly during cooking, resulting in the characteristic airy and bubbly naan texture. The preparation involves mixing the flour and yogurt together until forming a soft dough, which is then divided into small balls, rolled out to about half an inch thick. Cooking the naan on a preheated cast iron or heavy-bottomed pan at high heat encourages the development of bubbles and brown spots typically seen on authentic naan breads. Flipping after bubbles appear ensures even cooking on both sides. Using Greek yogurt not only helps with the dough’s tenderness through its acidity and moisture but also adds a subtle tangy flavor that complements many Indian dishes such as curries and chutneys. This method is excellent for busy home cooks who want to enjoy the flavor and texture of naan without the lengthy rise time required by traditional yeast-based recipes. For enhanced flavor, you can optionally add salt or other seasonings like garlic powder, dried herbs, or nigella seeds into the dough before cooking. Additionally, brushing the finished naan with melted butter or ghee adds richness and a glossy finish. This recipe’s simplicity and speed, combined with the use of common pantry ingredients, make it suitable for cooks at all skill levels looking to make authentic-tasting naan quickly. It’s a versatile side that pairs well with a variety of meals, making homemade naan accessible and easy any day of the week.
