Few breads feel as instantly inviting as a warm, freshly cooked naan. When sesame seeds and finely chopped garlic join the dough, the result becomes even more irresistible. Sesame naan bread delivers both aroma and texture, while still remaining simple enough to make at home. It suits busy cooks who want bold flavour without complicated steps.
Naan itself is a soft, leavened flatbread with a light and slightly fluffy texture. Traditionally, cooks bake it in a very hot clay oven called a tandoor, which gives it those characteristic golden spots and gentle char. However, home cooks can achieve similar results using a hot pan or oven. This flexibility has helped naan become popular well beyond its South Asian roots.
Sesame naan adds a subtle twist to the classic. Sesame seeds bring a nutty flavour and a gentle crunch to the surface. Meanwhile, finely chopped garlic infuses the bread with a rich, savoury depth. Together, these ingredients create a balance of softness and texture that feels both comforting and slightly indulgent.
Moreover, this version of naan stands out because of its simplicity. The dough remains straightforward, yet the toppings elevate it into something special. As the naan cooks, the sesame seeds toast lightly, releasing their aroma. At the same time, the garlic softens and mellows, creating a warm, fragrant finish. Each bite offers contrast, which keeps the bread interesting from start to finish.
In addition, sesame naan works beautifully as part of a shared meal. Its soft texture makes it ideal for tearing and dipping. Traditionally, naan acts as a utensil for scooping sauces, stews, and curries. This makes it both practical and enjoyable at the table. Guests often reach for it instinctively, especially when rich sauces are involved.
Because of its versatility, sesame naan pairs well with a wide range of dishes. From the collection at therecipe.website, consider serving it with:
- Thai Sweet and Spicy Shrimp
- Sticky Chinese Pork Belly
- Thai Chicken Pot Luck
- Barbecue Prawns
- Beef with Peppers and Egg Noodles
- Chicken Karahi
These dishes all feature bold sauces or rich flavours, which complement the mild, slightly nutty naan. The bread helps balance heat and spice while adding texture to each bite.
Furthermore, sesame naan can also act as a base for creative serving ideas. You might use it as a wrap for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Alternatively, you can serve it alongside dips, such as yoghurt-based sauces or spiced chutneys. Its flavour remains gentle enough to adapt, yet distinctive enough to stand out.
In conclusion, sesame naan bread offers a simple way to elevate a meal. It combines the softness of traditional naan with the added character of sesame and garlic. As a result, it feels both familiar and fresh. Whether served with bold mains or enjoyed on its own, it brings warmth, flavour, and a touch of creativity to the table.
Sesame Naan Bread
Equipment
- large frying pan or skillet
- Pastry Brush optional
Ingredients
- 250 g strong white bread flour
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp yeast fast-action
- 2 tbsp natural yoghurt
- 120 ml warm water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 cloves garlic very finely chopped
- 1 tbsp melted butter for brushing
Instructions
Preparing the dough:
- Add the flour, sugar, salt and yeast to a large bowl. Keep the salt and yeast separate at first. Stir to combine evenly.250 g strong white bread flour, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp yeast
Add wet ingredients:
- Pour in the yoghurt, warm water, and olive oil. Mix everything together until a soft dough forms.2 tbsp natural yoghurt, 120 ml warm water, 1 tbsp olive oil
Knead the dough:
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should feel soft but not sticky.
First rise:
- Place the dough back into the bowl. Cover it with a clean tea towel. Leave it in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Prepare toppings:
- Mix the sesame seeds with the finely chopped garlic in a small bowl. Set aside.2 tbsp sesame seeds, 2 cloves garlic
Divide and shape:
- Once risen, knock back the dough gently. Divide it into 6 equal portions. Roll each piece into a ball.
Roll out the naan:
- Use a rolling pin to flatten each ball into an oval or teardrop shape, about 3–5mm thick.
Add topping:
- Sprinkle the sesame and garlic mixture over one side of each naan. Press it lightly into the surface so it sticks.
Cook the naan:
- Heat a large frying pan over high heat. Place one naan into the pan, topping side up. Cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbles form.
Flip and finish:
- Turn the naan over and cook for another 1–2 minutes. The surface should develop golden spots and slight charring.
Brush and serve:
- Remove from the pan and brush lightly with melted butter. Keep warm under a tea towel while cooking the rest.1 tbsp melted butter