I’m fascinated by the power of food and the way it can make us feel – the best dishes for me will satiate, evoke memory and impact my mood (for the better).
This soft and fluffy naan (or flatbread) does all that and more. It is peppered with fragrant garlic and cilantro, which can be enhanced with a distinctive charred flavour, courtesy of a tandoori oven. For the sake of ease, however, I’ve provided stovetop instructions. Trust me, you’ll be generously rewarded for your efforts.

Garlic and Cilantro Naan
This soft and fluffy naan (or flatbread) is easy to make on the stovetop and perfect for pairing with butter chicken and other curries. Flavoured with fragrant garlic and fresh cilantro, it pairs well with bold, hearty dishes.
Ingredients
- 4 cups flour plus extra for dusting
- 2 tsp active dried yeast
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk warm
- ¼ cup plain yogurt room temperature
- 2 Tbsp grapeseed oil plus extra for brushing
- 1 egg beaten
- 3 Tbsp butter room temperature
- 2 cloves garlic finely chopped
- 2 tsp chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Put flour in a large bowl and create a well in the center. Add yeast, sugar, baking powder, salt, milk, yogurt, oil and egg. Using a wooden spoon, slowly mix in the flour until a dough is formed.
- Lightly dust a clean work surface with flour, then knead the dough for 5 minutes. Brush dough surface with oil, transfer to a bowl and cover with a dish towel. Set aside and let rise for 1–2 hours, until doubled in size.
- In a small bowl, combine butter, garlic and cilantro and set aside.
- Tip dough ball onto the work surface. Slice into 10–12 pieces. Using a rolling pin, roll out dough into rounds or ovals, about ⅓ inch thick. Add flour to the rolling pin or work surface, if necessary, to prevent dough from sticking.
- Brush a large frying pan with oil and heat over medium heat. Add naan and fry for 2 minutes, until golden brown or lightly charred. Flip, then brush the garlic butter over the cooked side. Fry for 1 minute. Transfer naan to a plate and cover with aluminum foil to keep warm. Repeat with the remaining naan. Serve warm.
Notes
Tips:
- Use a rolling pin lightly dusted with flour to prevent sticking
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavour















