Naan is a type of flatbread that originated in Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent. It is made with wheat flour and traditionally cooked in a tandoor oven. Naan is a staple bread in many South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines. Its popularity has spread around the world along with the cuisine of the region. But with so many varieties of naan available, which one is the most popular?
The Origins of Naan
The earliest origins of naan can be traced back to ancient Persia and the Middle East. The word “naan” itself is derived from the Persian and Hindi word “nān”. Naan was likely brought to the Indian subcontinent between the 10th and 13th centuries by Persian and Afghan invaders.
In India, naan found a natural home given the similarities with traditional Indian flatbreads like roti and paratha. Over the centuries, naan evolved into an integral part of Indian cuisine, especially in the north. The perfected art of cooking naan in a tandoor oven gave the bread its distinctive charred finish and pillowy texture.
Varieties of Naan
While originally, naan referred to any type of flatbread, it has now come to signify a specific style of oven-baked flatbread. There are numerous varieties of naan bread made across Central Asia, the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent. Some of the most popular types include:
Plain Naan
The most basic, traditional form of naan is the plain naan. It is made with just white flour, yeast, salt and water. The dough is kneaded and left to rise before being baked at high heat in a tandoor oven. Plain naan has a slightly charred exterior and a soft interior perfect for dipping and soaking up curries and stews.
Garlic Naan
As the name suggests, this naan is flavored with chopped garlic. Garlic is added to the dough before cooking. The aroma of roasted garlic takes this naan to the next level. Garlic naan goes very well with rich curries and meats.
Butter Naan
Butter naan is plain naan enriched with butter or ghee. The butter is either added to the dough or brushed on the baked naan. It provides a rich flavor and flaky texture. Butter naan is probably the most popular restaurant-style naan.
Cheese Naan
For cheese lovers, there is cheese naan garnished with mozzarella, cheddar or other cheeses. The cheese is sprinkled on the naan before baking so it melts slightly. Cheese naan is an inventive, modern twist on the traditional bread.
Keema Naan
Keema naan has a filling of spiced, minced lamb or goat meat. The keema filling provides a savory contrast to the plain bread. This naan is especially popular at Indian restaurants and meals.
Most Popular Varieties of Naan
While traditional plain naan may be the true original, newer versions have become more popular globally thanks to Indian restaurants and fusion cuisine. Some types like garlic naan are now almost synonymous with naan itself.
Here are some of the most popular naan varieties around the world:
Garlic Naan
Garlic naan is likely the most popular type of naan globally. The aroma and texture of roasted garlic combined with the fluffy naan is hard to resist. It complements rich curries very well. Almost every Indian restaurant will serve garlic naan as an appetizer.
Butter Naan
Alongside garlic naan, butter naan is one of the most widely available and consumed types of naan. The rich butter or ghee enhances the softness of the bread. Butter naan is versatile – great on its own or for dipping and soaking up sauces.
Cheese Naan
Cheese naan has become very popular in recent years. The melted mozzarella or cheddar adds a lovely cheese pull and savoriness that pairs wonderfully with many dishes. It also appeals to cheese-loving palates. Cheese naan is a menu staple at Indian and fast casual restaurants.
Keema Naan
Keema naan may not be as ubiquitous as the other varieties. But the minced meat filling makes it a favorite at restaurants that offer it. The juicy keema stuffing provides a satisfying flavor and texture contrast to the flaky bread.
Kashmiri Naan
This variety contains dried fruits and nuts like almonds, pistachios and raisins. It provides both sweet and savory flavors and appealing textures. Kashmiri naan pairs beautifully with rich curries and biryanis. It’s growing steadily in popularity.
Nutritional Info
Since naan is mainly made from refined wheat flour, it does not provide much nutritional value on its own. A 100g serving of plain naan contains approximately:
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 275 |
| Fat | 1.3g |
| Protein | 10.7g |
| Carbs | 53.5g |
| Fiber | 2.4g |
However, naan can be part of a healthy diet when enjoyed in moderation and paired with nutritious proteins, veggies and sides. Opt for whole wheat or multigrain naan when possible.
How to Make Naan at Home
Here is a simple recipe to make plain naan bread at home:
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp instant yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil + more for brushing
Steps
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast and salt.
- Add water and 2 tbsp olive oil. Mix and knead into a smooth, elastic dough.
- Cover and let the dough rise for 1 hour.
- Once risen, divide the dough into 6 portions.
- Roll out each portion into an oval shape.
- Cook each naan for 2-3 minutes per side in a hot pan.
- Brush cooked naan with a little olive oil.
For added flavor, you can add minced garlic, dried herbs or spices into the dough. Brush with butter or herbs after cooking.
Conclusion
Naan is fluffy, versatile and perfect for scooping up curries and sauces. While traditional plain naan is the foundation, garlic naan, butter naan and cheese naan have become the most popular globally thanks to their widespread availability and irresistible flavors. Naan can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet in moderation. And it’s easy to make tasty homemade naan with basic ingredients. So next time you enjoy Indian food, taste and appreciate the delicious naan that accompanies it.