What's Naan Bread?
Naan is a leavened, oven-baked (usually using a tandoor) or tawa-fried flatbread. It is characterized by its light and slightly fluffy texture and golden-brown spots from the baking process.
Wikipedia.org
I love cooking, and naan bread has always been one of my favorites. It's soft and chewy and goes great with lots of spicy dishes. But I realized I wanted to make a version that everyone could enjoy, including friends who avoid gluten for various health reasons.
I didn't want anyone to miss out on the joy of a good naan, so I decided to figure out how to make naan bread that was gluten-free. This meant replacing the usual wheat flour with other kinds of flour that don't contain gluten, like rice flour and tapioca flour.
I tried lots of combinations, and at first, it was really tricky. Sometimes the bread wouldn't puff up like it's supposed to, or it would fall apart and be too crumbly. But I kept trying because I wanted to create a naan that everyone could enjoy, no matter their dietary needs.
Finally, after lots of tries, I found the perfect mix!
When I cooked this on a hot skillet, it actually puffed up and got those awesome bubbles on the surface! It smelled amazing and tasted so good—soft, chewy, and just a bit crispy on the edges. I was super happy!
Chef's Notes – Gluten-Free Naan Bread
Essential Tips
- Psyllium Husk: Crucial for binding and elasticity, giving the dough a soft, chewy texture.
- Temperature: Preheat skillet well to ensure naan puffs and forms bubbles.
- Dough Consistency: Smooth and elastic. Adjust with millet flour if sticky, warm water if dry.
- Resting Period: Let dough rest after kneading for easier handling and better hydration.
Preparation
- Rolling: Roll on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
- Cooking: Cook each flatbread 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown spots appear.
Finishing Touches
- Brushing: Use melted ghee or butter for flavor and moisture. Plant-based butter for vegan option.
- Garnishing: Fresh cilantro, or experiment with parsley, mint, etc.
Serving and Storage
- Serving Suggestions: Warm with Indian dishes like curry, dal, tandoori; also good for wraps and sandwiches.
- Freezing: Fully cook, cool, and freeze with parchment paper between flatbreads in a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheating: Use preheated oven or skillet to maintain texture; avoid microwaving.
Enhancements
- Flavor Additions: Minced garlic, onion seeds, cumin seeds in dough; sesame or nigella seeds on top.
- Nutritional Boost: Add chia seeds or flaxseeds for extra fiber and omega-3s.
Pairing Ideas
- Dips and Spreads: Hummus, baba ganoush, tzatziki.
- Complementary Dishes: Grilled vegetables and meats.
FAQ – Gluten-Free Naan Bread
Is naan gluten-free?
Traditional naan is not gluten-free as it is made with wheat flour. However, gluten-free versions can be made using alternative flours such as rice flour and tapioca flour.
Can I make this naan bread vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by substituting the yogurt with a dairy-free alternative and using plant-based butter or oil instead of ghee.
What can I use instead of millet flour?
If you don't have millet flour, you can substitute it with finely ground brown rice flour. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly less fluffy.
Can I use a different starch instead of tapioca starch?
Yes, you can substitute tapioca starch with cornstarch or potato starch. Both alternatives will provide similar texture and binding properties.
How do I store leftover naan bread?
Store any leftover naan bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the naan for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet or oven before serving.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let the dough come to room temperature before rolling and cooking.
What can I use if I don't have psyllium husk?
Psyllium husk is essential for binding and providing elasticity in gluten-free dough. If you don't have it, you can try using ground flaxseed or chia seeds, but the texture might not be as ideal.
How do I ensure the naan puffs up properly?
Ensure your skillet is preheated to a high temperature before cooking the naan. This helps create the steam needed for the naan to puff up and form bubbles.
Can I use a different type of oil instead of olive oil?
Yes, you can use sunflower oil or any neutral-flavored oil as a substitute for olive oil.
How do I prevent the naan from sticking to the skillet?
Make sure your skillet is well-heated and lightly greased before cooking the naan. If the naan sticks, you can use a non-stick skillet or add a bit more oil.
Can I add other flavors to the naan?
Absolutely! You can add minced garlic, herbs, or spices to the dough for extra flavor. Freshly chopped cilantro or garlic can also be added as a garnish after cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for people with celiac disease?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free and suitable for individuals with celiac disease. However, ensure all ingredients used are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
How do I reheat the naan without losing its texture?
Reheat the naan in a preheated skillet or oven for a few minutes until warm. Avoid microwaving as it can make the naan chewy and less fluffy.
What goes well with Gluten-Free Naan Bread?
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