Whole Wheat Naan Recipe: A Healthy and Delicious Indian Flatbread
Whole wheat naan is a healthier, yet equally delicious alternative to traditional naan made from refined flour. It is an excellent addition to any meal, particularly when paired with flavorful Indian curries such as Paneer Butter Masala or Kadai Paneer. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also diabetic-friendly, making it perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner or to serve at your next party.
Ingredients for Whole Wheat Naan:
Ingredient | Quantity |
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Whole Wheat Flour | 2 cups |
Active Dry Yeast | 1-1/2 teaspoons |
Lukewarm Water | 3/4 cup |
Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) | 2 tablespoons |
Salt | To taste |
Instructions for Making Whole Wheat Naan:
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Mix the Ingredients:
- Begin by taking a large mixing bowl and combine the whole wheat flour, sugar, salt, and active dry yeast. Make sure the yeast is evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
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Prepare the Dough:
- Add the yogurt and gradually pour in lukewarm water. Start by adding a little water at a time and knead the mixture into a smooth dough. It should come together nicely but not be sticky.
- Continue kneading the dough for about 4-5 minutes to ensure it becomes soft and pliable, which is essential for achieving the perfect texture once cooked.
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Resting the Dough:
- Once kneaded, cover the dough with a clean cloth and place it in a warm area. Let the dough rest for about 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This step allows the yeast to activate and the dough to rise.
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Punch and Divide the Dough:
- After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Knead it for a couple of more minutes to ensure it is smooth.
- Divide the dough into 6 to 8 equal portions. Allow these portions to rest for another 10 minutes. This resting time allows the dough to rise a little again and makes it easier to roll out.
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Rolling the Naan:
- Lightly dust a flat surface with flour and take one portion of dough. Roll it out into a circle or oval shape, keeping the thickness moderate (not too thin).
- Roll each piece of dough one by one, ensuring they are all the same size for even cooking.
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Cooking the Naan:
- Heat a skillet or tawa on medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, place one of the rolled-out naan onto the skillet.
- Cook the naan on one side until brown spots begin to appear and the dough starts to puff up with air pockets. Flip it to the other side and cook until golden brown as well.
Optional Step: If you have a gas flame, you can place the naan directly on the flame for a minute or two once it is partially cooked on the skillet. This will give the naan a beautiful char and additional puff.
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Finishing Touches:
- Once cooked, remove the naan from the skillet. While still warm, smear a little butter on top for added flavor and softness.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the warm whole wheat naan immediately with your favorite curry, such as Paneer Butter Masala, Kadai Paneer, or a refreshing salad and raita for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions:
Whole wheat naan makes an excellent accompaniment to a variety of dishes. It pairs especially well with creamy curries like Paneer Butter Masala or spiced dishes like Kadai Paneer. You can also enjoy it with some cooling raita and a crisp salad for a satisfying meal.
Tips for Perfect Whole Wheat Naan:
- Resting Time is Key: Don’t rush the resting process. Allow the dough to rise fully for a soft and airy naan.
- Adjust Water as Needed: Depending on the flour and humidity, you might need slightly more or less water. Aim for a smooth dough that isn’t too sticky.
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet for Best Results: A cast-iron skillet retains heat well, giving the naan a lovely golden brown color and a slight crispness on the outside.
- Try Adding Garlic or Herbs: For extra flavor, you can sprinkle garlic, cilantro, or your favorite herbs on top of the naan before cooking.
Nutritional Information:
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 Naan) |
---|---|
Calories | ~150-180 kcal |
Carbohydrates | ~30 g |
Protein | ~4 g |
Fat | ~1 g |
Fiber | ~4 g |
Sodium | ~200 mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used.
Preparation and Cooking Time:
Preparation Time | 140 minutes (including resting time) |
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Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
Total Time | 170 minutes (2 hours 50 minutes) |
Servings:
This recipe makes 4 servings, perfect for a family meal or a small dinner party.
Enjoy the wholesome goodness of this whole wheat naan with your favorite curry and experience the authentic flavors of North India with a healthy twist. This diabetic-friendly naan will surely become a staple in your kitchen for delicious and nutritious meals.