Jamie Oliver Naan Bread Recipe

Store-bought naan doesn’t come close to the real thing, and making it from scratch is easier than you think!

Jamie Oliver’s take keeps it simple but gets the texture just right—soft enough to tear easily but still sturdy enough to hold toppings.

The secret is using the right amount of yogurt, which keeps the dough from turning tough after cooking.

Rolling it out thin before cooking helps it puff up in all the right spots.

I like to cook mine on a screaming-hot pan, flipping it just once for the best charred edges.

This recipe turns out naan that’s light, chewy, and ready to pair with just about anything!

How to Make Jamie Oliver Naan Bread

Ingredients

• 2 cups Plain Flour
• 2 tsp Baking Powder
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 cup Greek Yogurt
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1/4 cup Milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Mix the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.

Make a well in the center.

Add yogurt, milk, and olive oil.

Step 2:

Stir until the ingredients combine and form a dough.

If needed, add a splash of water for the right consistency.

Step 3:

Transfer the dough to a floured surface.

Knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 4:

Divide the dough into 5 equal portions.

Roll each portion into a ball.

Step 5:

Flatten each ball into a rough circle using a rolling pin.

Aim for about 1/4 inch thickness.

Step 6:

Heat a pan over medium-high heat.

Cook each naan for about 2 minutes on each side or until puffy and golden brown.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Baking Powder

Always use fresh baking powder for the best rise in your naan bread.

Baking powder that has lost its potency will affect the texture and fluffiness.

Keep Your Dough Soft

Ensure your dough remains soft to maintain a tender texture after cooking.

If the dough feels too dry, use a bit more yogurt or milk.

High Heat for Better Results

Cook your naan on a well-heated pan to achieve perfect puffiness and delicious golden spots.

This helps replicate the traditional tandoor method.

Experiment with Flavors

Feel free to incorporate garlic, herbs, or seeds for added flavor.

You can even brush melted butter on top for a richer taste.

Practice Makes Perfect

Don’t worry if your first batch isn’t perfect.

With practice, you’ll learn how to adjust the dough and heat to get the best results.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Naan Bread

Paneer Butter Masala

When you pair Jamie Oliver’s naan with paneer butter masala, you’re combining creamy textures with the warm comfort of fresh bread.

The rich, tomato-based sauce of this dish goes perfectly with the naan, making every bite absolutely satisfying.

This combination is a delicious option for a traditional Indian meal.

Mango Chutney

Adding a sweet and tangy mango chutney to your naan bread will introduce some unexpected but exciting flavors to your meal.

The combination of ripe mangoes with the spices creates a fusion that enhances the naan’s neutral taste exquisitely.

Naan Tacos

For a fun twist, why not replace your regular taco shells with naan?

These naan tacos can be filled with your favorite taco ingredients, like spiced meat, crisp lettuce, and refreshing salsa.

The soft and chewy naan brings a wonderful texture to the tacos that regular tortillas might not provide.

Lentil Soup

Serving Jamie Oliver’s naan with a steaming bowl of lentil soup is comforting and nourishing.

The earthy flavors of the lentils feel heartening against the backdrop of the warm, chewy naan bread.

This pairing is a warm invitation to cozy up on a chilly evening.

Avocado and Tomato Salad

For a fresh and vibrant side, try serving your naan with avocado and tomato salad.

This salad is filled with creaminess from the avocado and a juicy burst from ripe tomatoes, plus a hint of lime.

It brings a refreshing contrast to the naan’s soft warmth, making it a wonderful option for a light accompaniment.

Variations and Substitutions

Three-Ingredient Magic

For a simple take on naan bread, use a three-ingredient dough.

You’ll need self-raising flour, full cream yogurt, and baking powder.

This combination is such a great option if you’re looking for a quick and easy alternative to more traditional recipes.

Yogurt Alternatives

If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with plain yogurt.

This change might alter the texture slightly but will still yield delicious results.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with coconut yogurt for a unique flavor.

Naan Substitutes

When naan bread isn’t available, you might reach for pita bread as a handy alternative.

Pita shares that soft, chewy texture similar to naan, making it a good choice.

Additionally, use pita with curries and other dishes where naan would typically shine.

Alternative Cooking Methods

You can also experiment with different cooking methods, like grilling or frying, to add your own flair.

Each method offers a slightly different texture and taste, so it can be a lot of fun to try.

How to Store Leftover Jamie Oliver Naan Bread

Wrap It Up

To keep your naan bread fresh, first wrap each piece carefully in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

This helps lock in the softness and prevents them from drying out.

Once wrapped, placing them in resealable plastic bags is a great idea to add an extra layer of protection.

Cool Storage

If you’re storing for the next day, keeping your wrapped naan at room temperature is perfect.

Just make sure it’s away from direct sunlight and cool places help them stay fresh longer.

A pantry or a cool cupboard is an ideal storage spot.

Freezing for Later

When you’re thinking long term, the freezer is your best friend!

Wrap individual pieces in a way that they’re airtight, and tuck them away in a freezer bag or an airtight container.

You can store them this way for up to two or three months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the Kneading Process

You might be tempted to skip kneading, but it’s a crucial step to develop gluten and give your naan that classic texture.

Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, which usually takes about 10 minutes.

Kneading ensures air bubbles in the dough that help it puff up perfectly when cooked!

Using High Heat on the Pan

High heat can cause naan to burn before it’s cooked through.

Stick to medium-high heat, giving each side about 2 minutes to develop a nice char while remaining soft inside.

It’s important to preheat your pan well, but don’t let it scorch the naan!

Adding Too Much Flour

Adding too much flour can make your dough tough.

Use just enough to keep the dough from sticking to your hands and the rolling surface.

A sticky dough is much better than a dry one, so resist the urge to add extra flour!