Introduction:
Nothing beats the warm, soft, and pillowy texture of naan bread, especially when it’s infused with the rich flavors of garlic and melted cheese. Cheesy Garlic Naan Bread is a popular twist on the classic Indian flatbread, combining the best of both worlds: the deliciously fragrant garlic butter and the gooey, melty cheese. Whether served as a side with curries, grilled meats, or enjoyed on its own as a snack, this cheesy garlic naan is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. In this post, we’ll guide you through an easy recipe for making this irresistible bread from scratch.
Ingredients:
For the Naan Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or ghee)
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup milk
For the Garlic Butter:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
For the Cheese Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
2. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Add the yogurt, milk, olive oil (or ghee), and the activated yeast mixture. Stir everything together to form a sticky dough. Knead the dough for about 6-8 minutes on a lightly floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Let the Dough Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
4. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
While the dough is rising, melt the butter and mix in the minced garlic. Stir until the garlic is fragrant, then remove from heat and set aside.
5. Shape the Naan:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then use a rolling pin to flatten it into an oval or teardrop shape (about 1/4-inch thick). Make sure the naan is evenly rolled out for a consistent texture.
6. Add the Cheese Filling:
Place a generous amount of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese in the center of each naan. Fold the dough over the cheese to seal it in, then gently roll the dough again into an oval shape, encasing the cheese.
7. Cook the Naan:
Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the pan with a little oil or ghee. Place one naan in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until bubbles form, then flip it over and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly charred. Repeat with the remaining naan.
8. Brush with Garlic Butter:
Once the naan is cooked, immediately brush it with the melted garlic butter and sprinkle with chopped cilantro (if using). Serve the naan warm and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Garlic Naan:
- Use Fresh Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh to get the best rise and texture for the dough.
- Don’t Overstuff the Naan: When adding cheese, don’t overstuff it, as the cheese could leak out during cooking.
- Hot Pan is Key: A well-heated pan or skillet ensures the naan cooks quickly and evenly with beautiful golden brown spots.
- Add Variations: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or paneer for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions:
Cheesy Garlic Naan is incredibly versatile and pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes:
- With Curries: Serve this naan alongside your favorite curry, such as butter chicken, tikka masala, or dal, to soak up all the flavorful sauces.
- As a Snack: Enjoy it with a side of yogurt or chutney for a quick and satisfying snack.
- With Grilled Meats: This naan makes a wonderful accompaniment to grilled kebabs, chicken tikka, or lamb chops.
(FAQs) About Cheesy Garlic Naan:
1. Can I use store-bought naan?
Yes, you can use store-bought naan if you're short on time, but making it from scratch allows you to control the flavors and texture, making it even more delicious.
2. Can I make the naan dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before rolling it out and adding the cheese.
3. Can I freeze Cheesy Garlic Naan?
Absolutely! After cooking, let the naan cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet or oven.
4. Can I make this naan gluten-free?
Yes, you can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that the texture might differ slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Garlic Naan Bread is the perfect way to elevate any meal with its irresistible garlic butter and melted cheese. Whether you serve it with your favorite curry or enjoy it as a stand-alone treat, this naan will surely become a favorite in your home. Try making it yourself today for a flavorful, comforting addition to your meal repertoire!