Homemade Sourdough Naan Bread

Soft and pillowy, Homemade Sourdough Naan Bread is a delightful way to use up excess sourdough starter while creating delicious flatbreads. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also perfect for various occasions, whether you’re enjoying a cozy dinner at home or hosting a gathering. Each bite of this naan is infused with flavor, making it an ideal accompaniment to your favorite dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up homemade naan in no time.
• Flavorful: The use of sourdough discard adds a unique tang that enhances the taste.
• Versatile: Enjoy it with curries, stews, or even as a base for pizzas.
• Perfect Texture: Achieving soft and fluffy naan is easy when you follow this recipe.
• Great for Meal Prep: Use leftover sourdough starter while preparing delicious flatbreads.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your naan bread, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Kitchen towel

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Provides excellent heat retention and creates perfect char on the naan.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows ample space for combining ingredients without mess.

Ingredients

Soft and pillowy naan bread made with sourdough discard, perfect for using up excess starter while creating delicious homemade flatbreads.

• ½ cup (125g) unfed sourdough starter discard
• 2½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons (7g) sea salt
• ½ cup (120g) milk (dairy or plant based)
• ¼ cup (60g) plain yogurt (dairy or plant based)
• 1 tablespoon (15g) olive oil

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Homemade Sourdough Naan Bread

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the wet ingredients: unfed sourdough starter discard, milk, yogurt, and olive oil.
2. Add the all-purpose flour and sea salt to the mixture.
3. Mix with your hands until well combined and no dry bits remain.

Step 2: Let It Rise

1. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel.
2. Allow the dough to rise until it has doubled in size, which should take about 8 hours at room temperature (68°F).

Step 3: Shape the Dough

1. After rising, divide the dough into 8 equal pieces, approximately 78g each.
2. Shape each piece into a ball and cover them with a towel to prevent drying out.

Step 4: Preheat Your Skillet

1. Heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 10-15 minutes until hot.

Step 5: Roll Out Each Naan

1. Take one dough ball and roll it out on a floured surface to about an ⅛-inch thickness (around 6 inches in diameter).
2. Use flour as needed to prevent sticking during rolling.

Step 6: Cook the Naan

1. Place each rolled-out naan onto the preheated skillet.
2. Cook for about 2 minutes until bubbles form on top.
3. Flip the naan over and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
4. Flip once more until it puffs with air; then remove from the skillet.
5. Repeat this process with remaining dough balls until all naans are cooked.

Enjoy your tasty homemade sourdough naan bread warm!

How to Serve Homemade Sourdough Naan Bread

Homemade sourdough naan bread is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Curries

• Butter Chicken – The creamy sauce and spices of butter chicken complement the soft naan perfectly.
• Vegetable Curry – A colorful medley of vegetables in a rich sauce creates a flavorful vegetarian option.

As a Wrap

• Falafel Wrap – Fill your naan with crispy falafel, fresh veggies, and tahini for a tasty wrap.
• Chicken Shawarma – Use naan to encase spiced chicken slices, lettuce, and garlic sauce for a delightful meal.

As an Appetizer

• Dips – Serve warm naan with hummus or tzatziki for a simple yet satisfying starter.
• Cheese Platter – Pair naan with assorted cheeses and fruits for an elegant appetizer spread.

With Salads

• Greek Salad – Enjoy naan alongside a refreshing Greek salad topped with olives and feta cheese.
• Chickpea Salad – This protein-packed salad complements the bread’s texture nicely.

How to Perfect Homemade Sourdough Naan Bread

To ensure your homemade sourdough naan bread turns out fluffy and delicious, follow these helpful tips.

• Mix Thoroughly – Make sure all ingredients are well combined, as uneven mixing can lead to inconsistent texture.
• Let it Rise – Allow the dough to rise adequately; this develops flavor and creates that soft, pillowy texture.
• Use High Heat – Cooking on medium-high heat helps achieve those beautiful charred spots on the naan.
• Keep It Covered – Always cover the dough balls while they rest to prevent them from drying out.
• Experiment with Flavors – Add herbs or spices to your dough for extra flavor; garlic or cilantro work great!
• Store Properly – Keep leftover naan in an airtight container or freeze it for later use; just reheat before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Sourdough Naan Bread

Homemade sourdough naan bread is delicious on its own but pairs excellently with various side dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside your naan.

1. Chickpea Curry – A hearty dish that pairs beautifully with the softness of the naan.
2. Palak Paneer – Spinach and cheese in a creamy sauce make for a rich accompaniment.
3. Tandoori Chicken – Marinated grilled chicken adds bold flavors that contrast nicely with the bread.
4. Dal Makhani – This lentil dish provides a comforting side that complements the naan perfectly.
5. Cucumber Raita – A cooling yogurt-based side that balances spicy dishes well.
6. Aloo Gobi – This potato and cauliflower dish is flavorful and satisfying alongside naan.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Sourdough Naan Bread can be simple, but certain mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using Fed Sourdough Starter: Always use unfed sourdough starter discard for this recipe. Fed starter has different hydration levels and could alter the dough’s texture.

• Not Letting the Dough Rise Enough: Ensure the dough doubles in size during the rise. Skipping this step can result in dense naan rather than soft, pillowy bread.

• Rolling Too Thin: Rolling the dough too thin will make it difficult for the naan to puff up while cooking. Aim for about ⅛-inch thickness for best results.

• Cooking on Low Heat: Cooking at too low a temperature can lead to dry naan. Preheat your skillet adequately to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust and fluffiness.

• Skipping the Resting Period: After dividing the dough, let it rest under a towel. This helps relax gluten, making it easier to roll out and shape.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Refrigerate naan in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Layer parchment paper between each piece to prevent sticking.

Freezing Homemade Sourdough Naan Bread

• Freeze naan by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Homemade Sourdough Naan Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and wrap naan in foil. Heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place naan on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 20-30 second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm a skillet over medium heat and place naan directly onto it for about 1 minute on each side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Homemade Sourdough Naan Bread:

How long does homemade sourdough naan bread last?

Homemade sourdough naan bread lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer when stored properly.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute some all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. Start with a mix of both for best results.

What should I serve with homemade sourdough naan bread?

This versatile bread pairs well with curries, stews, or as a base for wraps. You can also enjoy it with dips like hummus or tzatziki.

Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! Use plant-based yogurt and milk instead of dairy options for a completely vegan version of homemade sourdough naan bread.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Sourdough Naan Bread is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. This recipe allows you to enjoy soft, pillowy flatbreads that complement many dishes. Feel free to customize your naan by adding herbs or spices into the dough before cooking! Try making it today and impress your friends and family with your baking skills!