01/11Naan varieties that no one told you about!
When it comes to enjoying curries, we all look forward to Naan, which is a popular bread made with all-purpose flour, yeast and water with a bit of salt. It’s traditionally cooked in tandoor and has a soft and chewy texture. Originating from the Persian word ‘non’ which means bread, there is so much more to this dish. Here are some of the popular varieties that you must know about. (Images courtesy: istock)
02/11Garlic Naan
Adding minced garlic to the dough elevates the plain naan to a whole new level. The aromatic flavour of garlic permeates through the bread, enhancing its taste and aroma. Garlic naan pairs exceptionally well with rich and spicy gravies, adding a garlicky punch to every bite.
03/11Butter Naan
Butter naan is indulgence personified. After cooking the plain naan, a generous amount of butter is brushed over the surface, imparting a rich yet buttery flavour. The butter also gives the naan a glossy finish, making it irresistible to resist. Butter naan is a crowd favourite and often ordered alongside creamy Indian delicacies like Butter Chicken and Paneer Makhani.
04/11Cheese Naan
Cheese lovers rejoice! Cheese naan combines the goodness of naan with the gooeyness of melted cheese. Grated cheese, usually mozzarella or cheddar, is sprinkled over the rolled-out dough before baking, resulting in a cheesy delight. Cheese naan makes for a decadent standalone snack or a delightful accompaniment to spicy Indian dishes.
05/11Paneer Naan
Paneer, or Indian cottage cheese, is a versatile ingredient that finds its way into many Indian dishes. Paneer naan features chunks of paneer stuffed inside the dough before it’s cooked in the tandoor. The heat of the oven melts the paneer slightly, releasing its creamy texture and subtle flavour. Paneer naan pairs wonderfully with creamy gravies or can be enjoyed on its own with a dollop of yoghurt.
06/11Keema Naan
Keema, a spiced minced meat mixture, takes naan to a whole new level of indulgence. The dough is stuffed with cooked keema before being baked in the tandoor. The savoury flavour of the minced meat complements the softness of the naan, creating a delectable combination. Keema naan is a popular choice for those craving a meaty twist to their meal.
07/11Peshawari Naan
Hailing from the Peshawar region of Pakistan, this naan is a sweet and savoury delight. The dough is stuffed with a mixture of nuts, dried fruits, coconut, and sugar before being cooked in the tandoor. The result is a naan bursting with sweet and nutty flavours, making it a unique addition to any meal.
08/11Aloo Naan
Aloo Naan is a popular naan variety hailing from the Punjab region of India that tantalises taste buds with its unique blend of soft, pillowy dough infused with mashed potatoes and aromatic spices. This flavourful variation of naan offers a delightful contrast of textures and a comforting warmth that pairs perfectly with a variety of Indian dishes such as Chole, Dal Makhni and even Raita. Aloo Naan stands out as a deliciously innovative twist on traditional bread, sure to please even the most discerning palate.
09/11Kashmiri Naan
Kashmiri Naan is a speciality bread originating from the beautiful region of Kashmir in India. It offers a delightful fusion of sweet and savoury flavours, characteristic of Kashmiri cuisine. Made from a soft, fluffy dough enriched with yoghurt, milk, and sometimes cream, Kashmiri Naan is then filled with a rich mixture of dried fruits, nuts, coconut, and aromatic spices such as cardamom and saffron. This unique combination creates a delectable bread that is often enjoyed as a standalone treat or paired with savoury dishes, showcasing the culinary diversity of Kashmiri cuisine.
10/11Naan-e-Afghani
Naan-e-Afghani, originating from Afghanistan, is a traditional Afghan flatbread renowned for its simplicity and versatility. Made from a basic dough of flour, water, salt, and yeast, Naan-e-Afghani is typically baked in a tandoor, resulting in a soft, slightly chewy texture. Its distinct flavour and aroma make it a popular accompaniment to a wide range of Afghan dishes, such as Kebab and Chicken Curry.
11/11Iranian Naan
This traditional flatbread comes in various shapes and sizes, with some of the most popular types being Barbari, Taftoon, and Lavash. Iranian Naan is typically made from a simple dough of flour, water, yeast, and salt, and is baked to perfection in a tandoor or oven, resulting in a crispy exterior and soft interior. It’s a staple accompaniment to Iranian meals, enjoyed with Stews, Kebabs, or as a snack with cheese and herbs.
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