Artisan Garlic Naan Recipe

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There’s something deeply satisfying about warm, pillowy naan bread straight from the skillet, brushed with fragrant garlic butter and sprinkled with fresh herbs. Whether you’re scooping up a creamy curry or pairing it with a cozy bowl of soup, Artisan Garlic Naan adds a homemade touch that elevates any meal.

This naan is light and chewy, with charred golden spots and garlicky richness that makes it hard to stop at just one piece. It’s an easy recipe that brings restaurant-style bread right into your kitchen, with no tandoor needed—just a hot pan and a few simple ingredients.

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What Kind of Flour Should I Use for Naan?

All-purpose flour is the most commonly used and accessible option for making naan at home. It provides the perfect balance of softness and chew. If you want a slightly healthier twist, you can substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour, but keep in mind it will yield a slightly denser result.

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Ingredients for the Artisan Garlic Naan Recipe

All-purpose flour: This forms the base of the dough, giving it structure and a soft, chewy bite.

Active dry yeast: Essential for the dough to rise and develop airiness.

Sugar: A small amount to activate the yeast and add a subtle sweetness to the dough.

Warm water: Helps activate the yeast and brings the dough together.

Plain yogurt: Adds tenderness and tang, mimicking the traditional fermented dough used in tandoori naan.

Olive oil: Makes the dough smooth and easy to work with, also helps with browning.

Salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the naan.

Garlic cloves (minced): For the irresistible garlicky finish brushed on top.

Butter: Melted and mixed with garlic for brushing over the cooked naan.

Fresh cilantro or parsley: Adds a pop of color and herbal freshness.

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How To Make the Artisan Garlic Naan Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to lift the dough.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, yogurt, and olive oil. Add in the yeast mixture and stir until a sticky dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth.

Step 3: Let It Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Divide and Roll

Punch down the dough and divide it into 6-8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten into oval or tear-drop shapes using a rolling pin.

Step 5: Cook the Naan

Heat a cast iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Place a rolled-out naan on the hot pan and cook until bubbles form and the underside is golden brown, about 1-2 minutes. Flip and cook the other side.

Step 6: Garlic Butter Brushing

Mix melted butter with minced garlic. Immediately after cooking each naan, brush generously with garlic butter and sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley.

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Serving and Storing Artisan Garlic Naan

Serve your garlic naan warm, straight off the skillet, for the best flavor and texture. Pair it with Indian curries, soups, grilled meats, or even hummus for dipping. It makes a fantastic side or even a base for wraps.

To store leftovers, wrap the naan in foil or place in an airtight container. It stays fresh at room temperature for 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on a skillet or in the oven until warmed through. You can also freeze cooked naan for up to 2 months—just reheat from frozen!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep naan soft after cooking?

Wrap the cooked naan in a clean kitchen towel immediately after brushing with garlic butter. This helps trap steam and keeps it soft.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and cooking.

Is it possible to make naan without yeast?

You can substitute yeast with baking powder and baking soda, but the texture will be more like flatbread and less chewy than traditional naan.

Can I use ghee instead of butter?

Absolutely. Ghee brings a deeper, nutty flavor and is more traditional in many Indian recipes.

What if I don’t have yogurt?

You can replace yogurt with sour cream or even a splash of milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice for acidity.

Do I need a cast iron pan?

Cast iron is ideal for its even heat and ability to mimic tandoor-like charring, but a heavy-bottomed non-stick skillet also works well.

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Want More Bread & Side Ideas?

If you love this Artisan Garlic Naan, you’ll definitely want to try these other tasty recipes from Life With Nina:

• Homemade Naan Bread for a simple, base version that pairs with anything.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta to serve alongside your naan.
• Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta for a full-on garlic-inspired dinner.
• Cafeteria Noodles with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites if you’re in the mood for comfort food overload.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce for creamy garlic heaven.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it whenever you’re planning a cozy dinner or curry night.

And let me know in the comments how your garlic naan turned out. Did you go heavy on the garlic? Add some chili flakes? Or maybe brushed with herb butter instead?

I love seeing your delicious creations and swaps. Questions are welcome too—let’s make baking easier together!

Find more of my daily recipes and food ideas here: Life With Nina on Pinterest

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