If you're a fan of Indian cuisine, you've probably heard of naan. This delicious flatbread is a staple in Indian restaurants and can be eaten as a side dish or used to scoop up curries and other dishes. One serving of naan (10" diameter) contains approximately 550 calories.
Naan is made from flour, yeast, salt, and yogurt or milk. Some variations may also include spices or herbs such as garlic, cilantro, or cumin.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at naan, its nutritional information, health benefits, and different variations. We’ll also explore how to serve and store naan, and provide tips for making naan at home.
What is Naan?
Naan is a type of Indian flatbread that is traditionally cooked in a tandoor oven. It is made from flour, water, yeast, and salt. The dough is usually rolled out and then slapped onto the sides of the oven, where it bakes until puffed and golden. Naan has a slightly chewy texture and a mild, slightly sour flavor. It is often served as a side dish to curries or other Indian dishes, or used to scoop up sauces and dips. There are many different variations of naan, including garlic naan, onion naan, and paneer naan (which contains paneer cheese).
Ingredients in Naan
Naan is made from flour, water, yeast, and salt. The dough is usually enriched with yogurt, milk, or ghee (clarified butter) to give it a richer flavor and texture. Some variations of naan may also include spices or herbs such as garlic, cilantro, or cumin. Naan may contain allergenic ingredients such as wheat, milk, and yogurt.
One serving of naan (10" diameter) contains approximately 550 calories, 20 grams of fat, 80 grams of carbohydrates, and 13 grams of protein. It is also high in sodium, with one serving containing approximately 880 milligrams. Naan is not a particularly nutrient-dense food, as it is high in calories and carbohydrates but low in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. If you are watching your calorie intake, you may want to opt for a smaller serving size or choose a lower-calorie alternative such as roti (another type of Indian flatbread).
Health Benefits of Naan
While naan is not particularly nutrient-dense, it can still offer some health benefits. For example, the yogurt or milk used in naan dough can provide some calcium, protein, and probiotics (if the yogurt is live-culture). Additionally, some of the spices and herbs used in naan (such as garlic and cumin) may have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. However, it's important to note that naan is often served with high-calorie and high-fat dishes, so it's easy to consume too many calories and not enough nutrients.
Naan Variations
As mentioned earlier, there are many different variations of naan. Some popular ones include: - Garlic naan: flavored with garlic and sometimes cilantro - Onion naan: topped with sliced onions and possibly other spices such as cumin or coriander
How to Serve Naan?
Naan is a versatile bread that can be served with many different dishes. Here are some ideas: - Use naan to scoop up curries or other Indian dishes, such as saag paneer or butter chicken - Serve naan alongside soups or stews for dipping
Making Naan at Home
If you want to make naan at home, you'll need some basic ingredients and equipment, such as: - Flour (either all-purpose or bread flour) - Yeast, salt, sugar, and warm water
Where to Buy Naan?
Naan can be found at many Indian restaurants and grocery stores. It is usually sold pre-made and packaged, or freshly baked and wrapped in foil. If you can't find naan at your local grocery store, you may be able to find it online or at a specialty food store. You can also try making naan at home using a recipe and basic ingredients.
How to Store Naan?
If you have leftover naan, you can store it in the refrigerator for a couple of days or freeze it for longer storage. To freeze naan, wrap it in foil or plastic wrap and place it in a sealed container or freezer bag. To reheat frozen naan, simply unwrap it and place it on a baking sheet. Heat it in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Fun Facts About Naan
- Naan originated in India, but it is now popular in many other countries, including Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan. - Naan can be made with different types of flour, such as wheat, rice, or chickpea flour. - Naan is traditionally cooked in a tandoor oven, which is a cylindrical clay oven that is heated with charcoal or wood fires.
Naan is the ultimate Indian bread – soft, pillowy and perfect for scooping up curries, chutneys or dips. Its unique texture and flavor make it a favorite among bread lovers around the world.
5 FAQs About Naan Indian Flatbread
1. What is naan Indian flatbread?
Naan is a type of Indian flatbread that is made from fermented dough and typically baked in a tandoor oven. It is a staple food in many parts of India and is often served alongside curries, stews, and other Indian dishes.
2. What are the ingredients in naan?
The main ingredients in naan are flour, water, yeast, sugar, salt, and yogurt or milk. Some recipes also call for ghee (clarified butter) or oil to give the bread a richer flavor.
3. How is naan traditionally cooked?
Traditionally, naan is cooked in a tandoor oven, which is a clay oven that is heated with charcoal or wood. The dough is shaped into flat rounds and then stuck to the sides of the oven, where it is cooked at high temperatures for just a few minutes. This produces a slightly charred, crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior.
4. Is naan healthy?
Naan is relatively high in calories and carbs, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. However, it does contain some beneficial nutrients, such as protein, fiber, and B vitamins, and may also have probiotic properties if made with yogurt or sourdough.
5. How can I enjoy naan?
Naan can be eaten on its own as a snack, or served alongside curries, stews, or other Indian dishes. It can also be used as a base for pizza, topped with cheese and vegetables. To keep naan warm and soft, it can be brushed with butter or ghee and wrapped in foil or a towel until ready to serve.