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Sourdough Naan Flatbread

Sourdough Naan Flatbread

This Sourdough Naan Flatbread recipe combines the tangy depth of an active sourdough starter with the pillowy softness of traditional naan bread. Featuring simple pantry staples like flour, yogurt, and olive oil or ghee, it yields soft, fluffy flatbreads perfect for curries, wraps, or enjoying warm with butter. The recipe is versatile, easy to make, and customizable with herbs, garlic, or cheese, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup active sourdough starter
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (can substitute with bread flour or whole wheat)
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 1/4 cup warm water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or ghee, plus extra for brushing
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Combine the active sourdough starter, plain yogurt, and warm water in a large bowl and mix until smooth. Add the flour, salt, and sugar (if using), then mix until a sticky dough forms. Knead for 8-10 minutes until elastic and slightly tacky. Cover and let rest in a warm spot for 6 to 8 hours or overnight to ferment and rise.
  2. Divide and Shape: Once risen and bubbly, gently punch down the dough to deflate. Turn onto a floured surface and divide into golf ball-sized pieces. Cover loosely and rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
  3. Roll Out the Naan: Roll each dough ball into an oval or teardrop shape about 1/4 inch thick, keeping thickness even. Dust with flour as needed to prevent sticking, but avoid over-flouring to keep edges soft.
  4. Cook on a Hot Skillet: Heat a cast-iron or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Place one naan on the dry skillet and cook 1-2 minutes until bubbles form and bottom has brown spots. Flip and cook 1 more minute. Brush with melted butter or ghee immediately after cooking.
  5. Serve Warm: Stack cooked naans in a clean tea towel to keep warm and soft. Enjoy immediately or keep covered while finishing the batch.

Notes

  • Use a bubbly, recently fed active sourdough starter for best rise and flavor.
  • Use just enough flour when rolling out to prevent sticking without drying the dough.
  • A hot skillet is essential for characteristic browning and slight charring.
  • Resting dough balls after dividing helps prevent shrinkage during cooking.
  • Brush with butter or ghee right off the skillet to enhance aroma and taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: sourdough naan, sourdough flatbread, homemade naan, soft flatbread, Indian bread, sourdough bread, easy naan recipe