Ingredients
Dough
- 2 tablespoons warm water
- 1 teaspoon white sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 3 cups all purpose flour (add 1-2 tablespoons more if dough is sticky)
- 1/3 cup plain whole milk yoghurt
- 2/3 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- vegetable oil or ghee for cooking the naan
Garlic Butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
- 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
Cheese Filling
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Proof the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons warm water and 1 teaspoon sugar. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons active dry yeast on top. Cover and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes fluffy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, add 3 cups all purpose flour, 1/3 cup plain whole milk yoghurt, 2/3 cup warm water, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and the proofed yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 1 minute, either using a stand mixer with a hook or by hand, folding the dough until smooth.
- First Rise: Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap and a warm damp towel. Let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 hour to 1.5 hours.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: While the dough rises, mix 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, 2 teaspoons minced garlic, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro in a small bowl. Set aside for brushing later.
- Divide Dough and Stuff: After the dough has risen, divide it into 7 to 8 equal portions (use 8 for smaller naans, 7 for larger). On an oiled flat surface or plate, slightly flatten each portion. Place about 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of grated parmesan in the center. Fold dough edges together tightly into a ball to seal the cheese inside.
- Roll Out Naan: Gently roll each stuffed ball out into a thin, wide circle without tearing, ensuring the cheese stays sealed inside.
- Cook Naan: Heat an iron skillet or heavy pan over medium heat until hot. Place one rolled naan on the pan and cook until golden brown on one side, about 2 to 3 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for another 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a tray and repeat with remaining dough portions.
- Brush with Garlic Butter: While warm, brush each naan generously with the prepared garlic cilantro butter on one or both sides.
- Serve and Reheat: Serve the cheese-stuffed garlic naan warm. To reheat later, toast on a hot pan for about 1 minute per side.
Notes
- Adjust flour quantity as needed to prevent sticky dough.
- Use warm water (not hot) to proof yeast for best results.
- For a richer flavor, cook naan in ghee instead of vegetable oil.
- Ensure dough is rolled out thin but without tearing to keep cheese sealed.
- Serve naan fresh and warm for best texture and flavor.
- Leftover naan can be stored in an airtight container and reheated on a pan.
- Prep Time: 1 hr 30 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian