Craving soft, buttery garlic naan but don’t have a tandoor at home? You can prepare delicious restaurant-style naan on a regular tawa with a few simple steps. The key is to make a soft dough, give it enough resting time and finish the hot naan with garlic butter and fresh herbs.
Prepare a Soft and Flexible Dough
Start by combining maida, curd, salt and a little oil in a bowl. Yeast can also be added if preferred. Mix everything properly and knead until the dough becomes soft and slightly sticky.
The dough should not be made too firm, as a soft consistency helps the naan remain fluffy after cooking.
Make the Garlic Butter and Rest the Dough
For the topping, melt some butter and combine it with finely chopped fresh garlic and coriander. Fresh garlic gives the naan a stronger and more authentic flavour. Keep the garlic butter ready so it can be applied as soon as the naan comes off the tawa.
Once the dough is kneaded, cover it and let it rest for at least one to two hours. This step helps relax the dough, making it easier to roll while also contributing to a softer texture.
Roll the Naan and Cook It on a Hot Tawa
After resting, divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into an oval shape. Sprinkle finely chopped garlic over one side and gently press it into the dough.
Keep the naan slightly thick instead of rolling it too thin. This helps retain its softness after cooking.
Heat the tawa properly before placing the naan on it. Cook one side first and then turn it over. Look for golden-brown spots and light charring on the surface. These charred marks help recreate the smoky appearance and flavour associated with tandoor-style naan.
Add Garlic Butter and Serve Hot
As soon as the naan is removed from the tawa, brush it generously with the prepared garlic butter. Applying the butter while the naan is still hot allows it to soak into the surface and brings out the garlic flavour.
Serve the naan immediately with dishes such as paneer butter masala, chicken curry or mutton curry for a satisfying restaurant-style meal at home.