Einkorn Naan Recipe: Easy, Soft, and Delicious Bread

Discover the rich history and wholesome goodness of einkorn naan, a delightful twist on the classic Indian flatbread made with ancient einkorn wheat flour. Einkorn is one of the earliest cultivated forms of wheat, boasting a nutty flavor and higher protein content, making it a nourishing choice for your bread-making adventures.

This naan recipe brings together tradition and nutrition, resulting in soft, pillowy bread with a slightly chewy texture that pairs perfectly with curries, chutneys, or as a standalone snack.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious foodie, this einkorn naan recipe is straightforward and rewarding. It invites you to explore a healthier grain option while indulging in the beloved flavors of Indian cuisine.

Plus, homemade naan always beats store-bought versions in taste and freshness. Ready to impress your family and friends with a wholesome, flavorful naan?

Let’s dive right in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This einkorn naan recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a traditional Indian bread with a modern, nutritious twist. Einkorn wheat offers a unique, mildly sweet and nutty flavor that enhances the naan’s taste, making it more interesting than regular white flour versions.

It’s naturally lower in gluten, which can be gentler on digestion for many people.

Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you get soft, warm naan that’s perfect for dipping in sauces or wrapping around your favorite fillings.

Plus, making naan at home means you control the quality of ingredients, keeping it free from preservatives and additives.

Finally, this recipe is versatile – you can customize it with herbs, garlic, or even stuff it with fillings to suit your taste. If you’re interested in more wholesome, plant-based recipes, check out these favorites: Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping, Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious, and Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 cups einkorn flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt (room temperature)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for cooking)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Optional: minced garlic, chopped fresh cilantro, or nigella seeds for topping

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or fork
• Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Rolling pin
• Cast iron skillet or non-stick frying pan
• Tongs or spatula
• Basting brush (for oil or butter)

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work.
2. Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, add the einkorn flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture, yogurt, and olive oil. Using a spoon or your hands, combine the ingredients until a rough dough forms.
3. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes. Einkorn has less gluten, so the dough might be slightly stickier than regular wheat dough. Add small amounts of flour as needed to prevent sticking but avoid over-flouring.
4. First rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a clean bowl lightly coated with olive oil. Cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
5. Divide and shape: Punch down the risen dough gently and divide it into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball. Using a rolling pin, flatten each ball into an oval or teardrop shape about 1/4 inch thick. If desired, sprinkle with minced garlic or chopped cilantro and press lightly into the dough.
6. Cook the naan: Heat a cast iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Brush the pan lightly with olive oil. Place one naan on the hot skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbles form and the underside has golden brown spots.
7. Flip and cook: Flip the naan and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes. You can press the naan gently with a spatula to encourage puffing. If you want a charred effect, hold the naan with tongs over an open flame for a few seconds, if possible.
8. Keep warm and repeat: Transfer cooked naan to a plate and cover with a kitchen towel to keep warm. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining dough balls.
9. Serve: Brush warm naan with melted butter or olive oil and enjoy immediately with your favorite dishes.

Tips & Variations

“Einkorn dough can be a bit stickier than regular wheat dough due to its gluten structure. Don’t be discouraged if it feels different — a light dusting of flour and gentle kneading will get it to the right consistency.”

• Garlic Naan: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the dough or brush cooked naan with garlic butter for a classic flavor.
• Herb-Infused: Mix chopped fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, or parsley into the dough or sprinkle on top before cooking.
• Stuffed Naan: Fill dough rounds with spiced mashed potatoes, paneer, or sautéed vegetables before rolling out and cooking for a delicious stuffed version.
• Vegan Option: Substitute yogurt with plant-based yogurt and use olive oil or vegan butter to keep the recipe vegan-friendly.
• Cooking Alternatives: If you don’t have a skillet, you can bake naan at 500°F (260°C) on a hot pizza stone for 3-4 minutes or use a grill pan for smoky flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Einkorn flour adds a slightly higher protein and mineral content compared to regular wheat, making this naan not only tasty but also nourishing.

Serving Suggestions

This einkorn naan is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Serve it alongside your favorite Indian curries like butter tofu, chana masala, or vegetable korma for a comforting meal.

It’s also perfect for scooping up dips such as hummus, baba ganoush, or a spicy chutney. Try it as a base for quick wraps filled with grilled veggies and sauces for a nutritious lunch option.

For a special treat, brush warm naan with garlic butter and sprinkle with fresh herbs, then serve with a cooling cucumber raita or vegan yogurt dip. You can also check out more delicious recipes that complement naan well, such as Best Indian Vegetarian Starter Recipes for Every Occasion or Best Vegetable Curry Recipe for Rice That Tastes Amazing.

Conclusion

Making einkorn naan at home is a gratifying experience that blends ancient grains with traditional Indian flavors. This recipe offers a healthier alternative to conventional naan, with the added benefits of einkorn’s rich nutrient profile and unique taste.

Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this naan will add a touch of warmth and authenticity to your table.

Its soft texture, easy preparation, and adaptability make it a staple you’ll want to return to again and again. Experiment with herbs, fillings, and accompaniments to create your perfect version of this timeless bread.

For more inspiring recipes to elevate your cooking journey, explore our collection including Vegan Pinwheel Recipes That Are Easy and Delicious and Best Vegan Kale Dip Recipe for Easy Healthy Snacking.

Enjoy the wholesome goodness and happy cooking!

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