Unlock The Secret To Perfect Paneer Naan With This Easy Recipe
Paneer Naan is a soft and delicious Indian bread stuffed with spiced paneer, made using a simple dough of flour, yogurt, and milk. The filling consists of grated paneer mixed with onions, spices, and herbs for a flavorful bite. It's cooked on a tawa and finished with butter for added richness. This naan pairs wonderfully with curries, raita, or chutney, making it a delightful homemade treat.
Paneer Naan is a popular Indian bread filled with a savory paneer stuffing, made using a soft dough of flour, yogurt, and milk. The stuffing combines grated paneer, spices like cumin and garam masala, and fresh herbs for a burst of flavor. After rolling and stuffing the dough, it's cooked on a tawa for a fluffy texture with an optional charred finish over an open flame. Butter or ghee is brushed on top for a rich taste. The recipe is versatile and can be paired with any curry, raita, or chutney. Perfect for a homemade indulgence, this naan offers a restaurant-style dish straight from your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup milk (adjust as needed)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon oil or melted butter
For the Stuffing:
- 1 cup grated paneer (cottage cheese)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons coriander leaves, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
For Cooking:
- Butter or ghee for brushing
- Optional: Nigella seeds (kalonji) for garnishing
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Add yogurt and oil, mixing until the dough starts coming together.
- Gradually add milk, kneading the mixture into a soft, pliable dough. Avoid making it too sticky.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Prepare the Paneer Stuffing
- In a bowl, mix grated paneer, chopped onion, green chili, coriander leaves, cumin powder, garam masala, and salt.
- Blend the ingredients well to create a uniform stuffing. Set aside.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
- Divide the dough into equal-sized balls, depending on how many naan you want to make.
- Roll out each ball into a small disc on a floured surface.
Step 4: Stuff the Naan
- Place a generous amount of paneer stuffing in the center of each disc.
- Fold the edges over the stuffing and seal it tightly.
- Gently flatten the stuffed dough and roll it out into a round or oval shape. Be careful not to tear the dough and let the stuffing spill out.
Step 5: Cook the Naan
- Heat a tawa or skillet on medium-high flame.
- Place the rolled-out naan on the hot tawa. Cook until bubbles form on the surface.
- Flip the naan and cook the other side, pressing lightly for even cooking.
- Optional: Place the cooked naan over an open flame using tongs for a charred, tandoori-style finish.
- Brush the naan with butter or ghee for added flavor. Sprinkle with nigella seeds if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot paneer naan with:
- Butter chicken, paneer butter masala, or any curry of your choice.
- Raita or chutney for a lighter accompaniment.
Enjoy your homemade paneer naan, rich with flavors and perfect for a comforting meal.