Soft and Chewy Gluten Free Naan Bread

Gluten Free Naan Bread on a white plate topped with parsley and melted butter

5 from 1 vote

Soft and Chewy Gluten Free Naan Bread

This Gluten Free Naan Bread is incredibly soft, chewy, and packed with authentic flavor, making it the best choice for dipping in curry, scooping up hummus, or even using for wraps and pizzas. It rises perfectly, with just the right amount of chewiness. If you've struggled to find a good gluten-free bread, this one truly checks all the boxes.

Prep Time2

Cook Time2

Total Time2 3

Course: Appetizer, Bread, Breads

Cuisine: Indian

Keyword: gluten free naan

Servings: people

Calories: 64kcal

Author: Chandice Probst

Cost: $5

Ingredients

2 teaspoons yeast
2 teaspoons sugar
¾ cup warm water
¼ cup brown rice flour
¾ cup white rice flour
¾ cup tapioca starch
⅓ cup arrowroot starch
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon xanthan gum
1 teaspoon Real Salt
3 tablespoons plain yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

In a large glass bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in the warm water. Let proof for about 10 minutes.
Using a stand mixer, combine flours, starches, baking powder, xanthan gum, and salt. Mix well.
Add the yogurt, olive oil, and vinegar to the frothy yeast.
In small amounts, add the wet mixture to the dry mixture until combined.
Keep mixing until the dough comes together, it will be soft and slightly sticky.
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours.
Divide dough into 6-8 equal portions.
Place plastic wrap on counter and sprinkle white rice flour on the plastic wrap and the dough.
Roll our the portions, shaping them into tear drops or circles.
Heat a cast-iron skillet on medium high heat until it's almost smoking.
Pick plastic up by the edges and flip the dough onto your hands and lay it on the skillet.
Let cook on each side for roughly 1 minute or until dough is blistering and turning dark brown.
Slather dough with melted butter and enjoy

Notes

How to keep naan bread soft

The best kept secret to making deliciously soft naan bread is to wrap the bread in a towel right after cooking. This will keep the heat and steam trapped inside for a an extended time, making sure the bread is moist and pliable.

Can I add garlic or other flavors to the naan?

Yes, you can mix in minced garlic, fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, or spices like cumin or chili flakes into the dough before cooking. This will give the dough extra flavor if you're looking to spice things up or pair it with something like Instant Pot Indian Rice.

For a cheesy option, try mixing in some cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan cheese before baking. You can also sprinkle cheese on top of the dough right before cooking for a cheesy crust.

Can I make homemade naan without yeast?

Yes, you can swap yeast for baking powder for a quicker version. However, the naan may be a bit denser, lacking that classic airy texture. If you're looking for a yeast free bread recipe, try my gluten free sourdough.

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