Ingredients

• 3 cups All-purpose flour
• 0.5 cup Warm water (105-115°F)
• 1 tsp Active dry yeast
• 1 tsp Granulated sugar
• 1 tsp Salt
• 0.5 cup Plain yogurt (full-fat)
• 2 tbsp Vegetable oil or melted butter/ghee (for dough)
• 0.5 tsp Baking powder
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced (optional)
• 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• 2 tbsp Melted butter or ghee (for brushing)

Instructions

1. 1

   Activate yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.

2. 2

   Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder.

3. 3

   Form dough: Add the activated yeast mixture, plain yogurt, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or melted butter/ghee to the dry ingredients. Mix with a spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.

4. 4

   Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 7-10 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky. If making garlic naan, knead in the minced garlic during the last few minutes.

5. 5

   First rise: Lightly oil a clean bowl. Place the dough in the bowl, turning it once to coat. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.

6. 6

   Divide and shape: Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air. Divide it into 8 equal pieces. On a lightly floured surface, roll each piece into an oval or teardrop shape, about 1/4 inch thick.

7. 7

   Cook naan: Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until it is very hot. Place one naan dough piece onto the dry hot pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes until large bubbles appear on the surface and the bottom is lightly browned. Flip the naan and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the other side is cooked and lightly charred in spots.

8. 8

   Finish and serve: Transfer the cooked naan to a plate. Immediately brush it with melted butter or ghee and sprinkle with fresh cilantro, if using. Repeat with the remaining dough pieces. Serve warm.