Cheesy Naan Bread
- Kitchen scale
- Rolling Pin
- Pastry brush
INGREDIENTS
- Unsalted butter, melted
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Garlic powder
- Minced garlic
Dough:
- 1 teaspoon/4 grams granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup/120 grams lukewarm water
- 1 tablespoon/10 grams fresh yeast, or 1 1/2 teaspoons/5 grams active dry yeast
- 2 5/8 cups/315 grams all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup/120 grams plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon/14 grams olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon/3 grams salt
Filling:
- 1 cup crumbled feta
- 1 3/4 cups shredded mozzarella
INSTRUCTIONS
- In the mixer bowl, stir the water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Add the flour, yogurt, olive oil, and salt. Knead with the dough hook on medium until smooth and elastic, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer to an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
- Mix the crumbled feta with shredded mozzarella until evenly combined.
- Divide the risen dough into 8 pieces. Flatten each piece, fill with 2 tablespoons of cheese mixture, and pinch edges to seal. Place seam-side down, cover, and rest 20 minutes.
- On a floured surface, roll each piece into a 6–7 inch/15–18 cm round.
- Heat a skillet with a little olive oil. Cook one naan at a time, covered, 2 minutes per side, brushing with melted butter after flipping.
- Sprinkle hot breads with parsley and garlic, and serve warm the same day.
FAQ
How can I make this cheesy naan bread gluten-free?
Use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum or psyllium husk to mimic the elasticity of wheat flour. Mix the gluten-free flour with the yogurt, yeast, water, and oil as in the original recipe. The dough may be slightly stickier and less elastic, so handle gently. Allow extra time for rising, as gluten-free doughs can take longer to double. Shape carefully and cook in a hot skillet, brushing with butter for flavor.
Can I prepare the cheesy naan bread ahead of time?
This bread is best eaten fresh the same day it is made to preserve its soft texture and melted cheese. However, you can prepare the dough and filling in advance. Store the shaped, unbaked naan in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours before cooking, covered tightly to prevent drying. Bring to room temperature before cooking. Cook each naan in a hot skillet as instructed, and brush with melted butter just before serving to restore the soft, rich flavor typical of fresh cheesy naan bread.
What is the best way to store leftover cheesy naan bread?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day to maintain its softness. For longer storage, wrap each naan individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in an oven at 350°F/175°C until warmed through, brushing lightly with butter or oil to restore moisture.
Can I cook the bread in an oven instead of a skillet?
Preheat the oven to 475°F/245°C and place the rolled-out naan on a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone. Bake for 4 to 6 minutes until puffed and lightly golden, then brush with melted butter and sprinkle with parsley and garlic. While the skillet method creates a slightly charred, traditional flavor, the oven method still produces soft, cheesy naan bread with a tender, evenly cooked interior.
What is the best cheese ratio for this bread?
For soft, flavorful cheesy naan bread, a combination of feta and mozzarella works best. Feta provides a tangy, salty bite while mozzarella adds stretchiness and creaminess. Using approximately 1 cup/150 grams feta and 1 3/4 cups/200 grams mozzarella ensures the filling is flavorful but not overly wet. If the filling is too dry, the naan may be bland; if too wet, it can leak during cooking. Adjust the ratio slightly based on your taste preference, but keep the balance to preserve soft texture and cheesy flavor.
What is the best way to serve cheesy naan bread?
Cheesy naan bread is best served warm on the same day it is cooked, either as a side with curries, stews, or soups, or as a base for sandwiches and wraps. Brush each piece with melted butter and sprinkle with herbs or garlic for added flavor. You can also cut the naan into triangles for dipping or sharing. Serving immediately preserves the soft, fluffy texture and the melted, gooey filling that makes cheesy naan bread so satisfying.
