Homemade Naan Roti Recipe: Soft, Fluffy, And Delicious

Naan roti is a popular Indian flatbread recognized for its soft and chewy texture, perfect for pairing with a wide range of dishes like curries, kebabs, or even as a wrap for flavorful fillings.

Making naan at home is easier than you might think, and the result is a delightful treat that’s far superior to store-bought options. Here’s a simple and foolproof recipe to enjoy warm, fresh naan roti from your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or liquid ghee (plus extra for brushing)
• 3/4 cup warm water (adjust as needed)
• Optional toppings: minced garlic, chopped cilantro, nigella seeds, or sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. Make The Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Mix the dry fixings well.
• Add the plain yogurt and vegetable oil (or melted ghee) to the dry ingredients. Start mixing the dough with your hands or a spoon.
• Gradually add warm water, a little at a time, and knead until you have a soft and smooth dough. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. Avoid adding too much water at once, as you can always add more if needed.
• Once the dough comes together, knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.

2. Rest The Dough:

• Shelter the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let the dough rest for at least 1 hour. This resting time allows the dough to become soft and fluffy, making it easier to roll out and cook.

3. Divide And Shape:

• Once the dough has rested, divide it into 8–10 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and set them aside.
• Dust your work surface and a rolling pin with a bit of flour. Take one dough ball and roll it out into an oval or round shape, about 1/4-inch thick. You can roll it thinner or thicker depending on your preference.

Cooking Methods:

Option 1: Stovetop Method (Using A Skillet Or Tawa)

• Heat a heavy skillet or tawa over medium-high heat. Once hot, place a rolled-out naan onto the skillet.
• Cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbles start to form on the surface. Flip the naan and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown spots appear on the other side. You can press down lightly with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
• If you like a smoky flavor, you can cook the naan directly over an open flame for a few seconds, allowing it to char slightly.
• Brush the cooked naan with melted butter or ghee and sprinkle with elective toppings like minced garlic, cilantro, or nigella seeds.

Option 2: Oven Method

• Preheat your oven to the highest setting (around 500°F or 260°C) and place a baking sheet or pizza stone in the oven to heat up.
• Once the oven is hot, carefully place the rolled naan onto the hot baking sheet or pizza stone. Bake for 3–4 minutes until the naan puffs up and has golden brown spots. You can finish it off under the broiler for an extra charred effect if desired.
• Brush the hot naan with melted butter or ghee and sprinkle with your favorite toppings.

Tips For Perfect Naan Roti:

• Use Warm Water: Warm water helps activate the baking powder and baking soda, making the naan fluffy.
• Yogurt Adds Tenderness: Yogurt is a key element that gives naan its soft texture, so don’t skip it.
• Don’t Overcook: Overcooking can make naan hard and chewy, so keep an eye on it and cook until just golden brown.

Serving Suggestions:

• Homemade naan roti is best liked fresh and warm. Serve it with your favorite curries, like butter chicken, paneer tikka masala, or dal. You can also use naan as a base for wraps, dipping it into hummus, or topping it with a simple garlic butter spread.

Storage:

• If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, sprinkle a bit of water on the naan and warm it in a skillet or microwave to restore its softness.
• Enjoy the aroma and flavor of homemade naan roti, made with love and the simplest of ingredients!