How to Make Garlic Naan (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Garlic Naan holds a beloved place on Dubai’s dining tables, from beach club brunches to bustling hotel restaurants and Ramadan iftar spreads. This soft, fragrant flatbread is brushed with aromatic garlic and fresh coriander, making it a perfect companion to Levantine mezze like hummus, smoky moutabal, or hearty Emirati stews. In Dubai, you’ll find garlic naan served fresh from tandoor ovens in business lunch buffets and alongside slow-cooked meat dishes at iftar, reflecting the city’s vibrant fusion of South Asian and Middle Eastern flavors. While naan is rooted in South Asian culinary tradition, Dubai has embraced it as a staple, transforming it into a crowd-pleaser that bridges cultures across the city’s diverse food scene. This recipe is a health-conscious take, using less oil and yogurt for a lighter finish without sacrificing the pillowy texture or robust garlic flavor. Whether enjoyed with a karak chai for breakfast or as a base for your favorite mezze platter, Garlic Naan is a versatile, vegetarian-friendly bread that brings Dubai’s multicultural dining experience straight to your home kitchen.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · In a small bowl
In a small bowl, dissolve active dry yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
Step 2 · In a large mixing bowl
In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. Mix well.
Step 3 · Add yogurt
Add yogurt, olive oil, and the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
Step 4 · Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic
Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
Step 5 · After rising
After rising, punch down the dough and divide into 2 equal balls. Roll each into an oval shape about 1/4 inch thick.
Step 6 · Sprinkle each naan with minced garlic and fresh coriander
Sprinkle each naan with minced garlic and fresh coriander. Gently press toppings into the dough.
Step 7 · Heat a heavy skillet or tawa over medium-high heat
Heat a heavy skillet or tawa over medium-high heat. Cook each naan for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and puffed. Optional: Brush with melted light butter after cooking.
Why this recipe is healthy
Choosing baked or pan-cooked naan with whole wheat flour boosts your fiber intake and keeps you fuller for longer, making it ideal for balanced Dubai meals. By reducing butter and using low-fat ingredients, this recipe cuts calories without sacrificing taste. The inclusion of fresh herbs and garlic not only adds flavor but also natural health benefits, making this a smart option for anyone seeking delicious, wholesome Dubai cuisine.
A note on tradition
Garlic Naan is a staple in Dubai’s multicultural food scene, often found in Emirati homes and at popular iftar buffets during Ramadan. It’s a common accompaniment at business lunches and family gatherings, reflecting Dubai’s embrace of diverse flavors. Served alongside Levantine mezze or slow-cooked dishes, it’s a symbol of hospitality and shared meals, cherished across the city’s vibrant dining spots, from beach clubs to traditional souks.