Vegan Garlic Naan Recipe Easy and Delicious at Home

If you’ve ever savored the soft, pillowy texture of traditional naan bread fresh from a tandoor, you know it’s an irresistible treat. But what if you’re following a vegan lifestyle or simply want a dairy-free version of this Indian classic?

Look no further! This vegan garlic naan recipe brings together the perfect blend of fluffy, tender bread infused with aromatic garlic and fresh herbs—all without any animal products.

It’s incredibly easy to make at home, requiring simple pantry staples and a bit of patience for the dough to rise.

Whether you’re pairing it with a spicy curry, using it as a wrap, or simply enjoying it with a dip, this naan will win over vegans and non-vegans alike. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress guests with your homemade bread skills.

Ready to roll up your sleeves and bake some delightfully soft, garlicky vegan naan? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan garlic naan is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s completely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and anyone avoiding dairy or eggs.

It uses simple ingredients like flour, plant-based yogurt, and garlic, which you probably already have in your kitchen.

Second, the texture is spot-on—soft and chewy with the perfect amount of crisp on the edges. The garlic butter is replaced with a flavorful vegan garlic oil or vegan butter mixture that adds richness without compromising the vegan integrity.

Lastly, this recipe is versatile and forgiving. You can easily tweak it by adding herbs like cilantro or even spices like cumin for extra flavor.

It’s a great way to bring a bit of Indian cuisine magic into your home cooking.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
• 2 tbsp plain vegan yogurt (unsweetened plant-based yogurt works great)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for cooking)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Salt to taste, for garlic oil

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or fork (to mix yeast)
• Rolling pin
• Non-stick skillet or cast iron pan
• Pastry brush (for garlic oil application)
• Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap (for dough resting)

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.
2. Make the dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture, vegan yogurt, and olive oil. Mix everything until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not overly sticky. You can add a little flour if it’s too sticky.
4. Let dough rise: Place the dough back into a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
5. Prepare garlic oil: While the dough is rising, mix the minced garlic with 2 tbsp olive oil and a pinch of salt. Set aside to let flavors infuse.
6. Shape the naan: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. Divide it into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it with a rolling pin into an oval or teardrop shape about ¼ inch thick.
7. Cook the naan: Heat a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Brush one side of the naan with garlic oil, then place it oil-side down on the hot pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbles form and the bottom is golden brown. Brush the top side with garlic oil, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
8. Finish and garnish: Remove the naan from the pan and brush with more garlic oil if desired. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top while still warm for a fresh burst of flavor.
9. Serve warm and enjoy! Repeat the process for the remaining dough balls. Serve your vegan garlic naan alongside your favorite curries, dips, or salads.

Tips & Variations

For a fluffier naan, you can add 1 tsp of baking powder to the dry ingredients along with the yeast.

Using warm water is crucial for activating the yeast properly, but make sure it’s not too hot, or it will kill the yeast.

Feel free to experiment with different herbs like mint or parsley instead of cilantro for a unique twist. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the garlic oil can add a mild heat and smoky flavor.

If you don’t have vegan yogurt, unsweetened applesauce can work in a pinch, but it may slightly change the flavor and texture.

For an extra indulgent touch, brush your naan with vegan butter right after cooking while it’s still hot.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan garlic naan pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Try it as a side with hearty vegan curries like a rich chickpea masala or creamy vegetable korma.

It’s also fantastic for scooping up lentil dal or drizzling with a bit of vegan garlic butter and dipping into a fresh tomato chutney.

For a lighter meal, use this naan as a wrap base filled with grilled vegetables, tofu, and a drizzle of tahini sauce. You can also enjoy it simply with a side of vegan vegetable dip or alongside a vibrant salad.

If you love baking, consider checking out our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves for more homemade bread ideas or try a cozy Vegetable Alfredo Recipe for Creamy, Healthy Dinners to complement your naan perfectly.

Conclusion

Making vegan garlic naan at home is easier than you might think, and the results are incredibly rewarding. This recipe delivers a soft, chewy bread infused with garlicky goodness and fresh herbs, perfect for any meal or occasion.

The best part? It’s completely dairy-free and vegan, making it accessible to a wide range of dietary preferences.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your vegan culinary journey, this naan bread recipe serves as a fantastic foundation for exploring Indian flavors and homemade breads. Plus, by making it yourself, you get to enjoy fresh, warm naan whenever the craving strikes—no need to rely on store-bought versions that often contain unwanted additives.

So, gather your ingredients, give this recipe a try, and bring the comforting taste of authentic vegan garlic naan to your table. And if you’re inspired to explore more plant-based dishes, don’t miss our curated collections like Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals and Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for sweet and savory delights.

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