Cheese Garlic Naan is a delicious variation of the classic naan, combining the rich flavours of melted cheese and garlic with the soft, fluffy texture of traditional Indian flatbread. Popular across Indian restaurants and homes alike, this irresistible dish has found its way into the hearts of food lovers globally. Whether enjoyed on its own or as an accompaniment to rich gravies and kebabs, Cheese Garlic Naan brings a fusion of traditional Indian and modern tastes. In this extended article, we’ll explore its origins, benefits, pairings, and provide a step-by-step recipe to make it at home.
Delicious !
Table of Contents
What is Naan?
Naan is a type of leavened flatbread with origins in the Indian subcontinent. Traditionally cooked in a tandoor (a cylindrical clay oven), naan is made using a dough of all-purpose flour, yeast, yogurt, and water. When cooked in the tandoor’s high heat, naan becomes pillowy soft on the inside with charred, slightly crispy edges.
While naan can be served plain, popular variations include butter naan, garlic naan, and the cheesy, garlicky version that has recently become a crowd favorite. The modern twist of Cheese Garlic Naan elevates the traditional naan to new heights by adding gooey melted cheese and the sharpness of garlic.
Why Cheese Garlic Naan is a Crowd-Pleaser
- Fusion of Flavors: The combination of cheese and garlic enhances the flavor of naan, making it appealing to a broader audience. Garlic adds a savory kick, while the melted cheese brings a creamy, indulgent texture.
- Versatile and Adaptable: Cheese Garlic Naan pairs well with a variety of dishes, from Indian curries to international cuisine like soups, salads, and grilled meats. It’s equally enjoyable on its own as a snack.
- Comfort Food Appeal: With its gooey, cheesy interior and buttery, garlicky exterior, Cheese Garlic Naan hits all the right notes for those looking for comfort food. It’s perfect for satisfying cravings, whether as a side dish or a meal in itself.
Health Benefits of Cheese Garlic Naan
While naan is often considered an indulgent treat, there are ways to make it healthier without compromising on flavor. Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour can add fiber, and moderating the amount of cheese can control fat intake. Garlic itself offers a range of health benefits, including boosting immunity, aiding digestion, and lowering cholesterol. When eaten in moderation and paired with nutritious sides, Cheese Garlic Naan can be a part of a balanced diet.
Pairing Cheese Garlic Naan with Dishes
Cheese Garlic Naan is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes to create a complete meal. Some of the best pairings include:
- Butter Chicken: The richness of Butter Chicken’s creamy tomato-based gravy complements the cheesy naan perfectly.
- Paneer Tikka Masala: The mild spiciness of Paneer Tikka Masala pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of garlic and cheese in the naan.
- Dal Makhani: A vegetarian favorite, Dal Makhani’s buttery, spiced lentil gravy is a fantastic pairing with Cheese Garlic Naan.
- Kebabs: The naan’s soft texture contrasts wonderfully with grilled kebabs, providing a complete meal.
- Soups and Salads: For a lighter option, serve Cheese Garlic Naan with hearty soups like tomato bisque or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Recipe: How to Make Cheese Garlic Naan at Home
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step recipe to make delicious Cheese Garlic Naan in the comfort of your own kitchen. You don’t need a tandoor—this recipe can be prepared using a regular oven or stovetop.
Ingredients for Cheese Garlic Naan
For the dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- ½ tsp sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ cup yogurt
- 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or olive)
- ½ cup warm water (adjust as needed)
For the garlic butter:
- 4-5 cloves of garlic, finely minced
- 3 tbsp melted butter or ghee
- 1 tbsp finely chopped cilantro (optional)
For the filling:
- 1 cup grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese (or a combination of both)
- ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional, for extra spice)
Instructions for Making Cheese Garlic Naan
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, yogurt, and oil. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and knead the dough until it’s smooth and soft. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour; if it’s too dry, add a bit more water. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise for about 1 hour until it doubles in size.
- Prepare garlic butter: While the dough is resting, prepare the garlic butter by mixing minced garlic with melted butter or ghee. Add chopped cilantro for an extra layer of flavor.
- Roll and fill the dough: Once the dough has risen, divide it into equal-sized balls (about 6-8 pieces). Roll each ball out into a small circle. Place about 2 tbsp of grated cheese in the center, then fold the edges of the dough over the filling to seal it. Gently roll it out again into a flat, circular shape, taking care not to let the cheese spill out.
- Add garlic butter: Brush the surface of the rolled-out naan with the prepared garlic butter.
- Cook the naan:
- On a stovetop: Heat a skillet or tawa over medium-high heat. Place the rolled-out naan on the skillet and cook until bubbles start to form on the surface. Flip the naan and cook for another minute or until golden spots appear. You can brush with more garlic butter once cooked.
- In the oven: Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C) and place the naans on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until golden and puffy.
- Finishing touch: Once the naan is cooked, brush it with more garlic butter and garnish with additional cilantro, if desired.
- Serve hot: Cheese Garlic Naan is best enjoyed hot, with the cheese still gooey and melted inside.
Tips for Perfect Cheese Garlic Naan
- Use a pizza stone: If baking in the oven, using a pizza stone can help mimic the high-heat environment of a tandoor, giving the naan a perfect texture.
- Experiment with cheeses: While mozzarella and cheddar are popular choices, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like gouda, feta, or Parmesan for unique flavors.
- Adjust garlic flavor: If you love garlic, you can increase the amount used in the butter mixture, or even mix some into the dough itself for a stronger garlic taste.
Conclusion
Cheese Garlic Naan is a fusion of traditional Indian naan with the irresistible flavors of cheese and garlic. Its versatility makes it perfect for pairing with a variety of dishes, or simply enjoying as a snack. With a soft, pillowy texture and rich, savory filling, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be easily made at home with the right ingredients and a little practice.
By following the recipe provided, you can recreate this delicious restaurant favorite in your own kitchen and experiment with different variations to suit your taste. Whether paired with a creamy curry or eaten on its own, Cheese Garlic Naan is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Sources:
https://www.tamarindnthyme.com/cheesy-garlic-naan-bread/
https://honestcooking.com/cheese-filled-garlic-naan-bread
https://theflavorbells.com/cheese-naan
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