Cottage Cheese Garlic Naan: Soft, Fluffy, and Full of Flavor

Cottage Cheese Garlic Naan is a delightful twist on the classic Indian flatbread. This soft, fluffy naan is stuffed with creamy cottage cheese and infused with aromatic garlic, making it the perfect companion for curries, soups, or even as a snack on its own. The beauty of this recipe is that it balances simplicity with flavor, allowing home cooks to create restaurant-quality naan right in their kitchens.

Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night at home, this Cottage Cheese Garlic Naan will impress everyone. The naan is slightly crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with cheesy garlic goodness. The recipe is easy to follow, doesn’t require complicated techniques, and can be made in under an hour. You’ll love how versatile it is – pair it with butter chicken, dal makhani, or just enjoy it with a drizzle of butter.

This recipe is designed for both beginners and seasoned cooks. From the perfectly kneaded dough to the quick pan-frying technique, every step is crafted to ensure success. With a few simple ingredients, you’ll create naan that rivals your favorite Indian restaurant.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Yield: 6-8 naans

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What Makes This Cottage Cheese Garlic Naan Special?

• Soft and Fluffy Texture: Achieved by using yogurt and a light kneading technique.

• Creamy Cottage Cheese Filling: Adds a rich, indulgent flavor without being heavy.

• Garlic Infusion: Perfectly balanced for flavor without overpowering the bread.

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknights.

• Versatile Serving Options: Complements curries, soups, and even works as a snack.

This recipe is designed for those who love flavorful bread but want a hassle-free cooking experience. Using a non-stick skillet reduces cooking time and ensures perfect golden brown naan every time.

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Ingredient Notes

• All-purpose Flour: Provides structure and softness. Whole wheat flour can be partially substituted for a nuttier flavor.

• Yogurt: Helps achieve fluffy naan and tender crumb. Greek yogurt can work for extra creaminess.

• Cottage Cheese (Paneer): The star ingredient for filling. Use fresh, soft paneer for the best texture.

• Garlic: Mellow and aromatic. Adjust quantity for milder or stronger flavor.

• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Aid in rising and create a soft texture.

• Butter or Ghee: Adds richness and golden color to the naan surface.

• Optional Herbs: Cilantro or parsley can be added for a fresh, bright note.

Special equipment: Non-stick skillet or tawa, rolling pin.

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How To Make Cottage Cheese Garlic Naan

1. Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, ½ tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, ½ tsp salt, 2 tbsp yogurt, and ¼ cup water. Knead into a soft, elastic dough (about 5-7 minutes). Cover and rest for 20 minutes. (Tip: Resting allows gluten to relax for softer naan.)

2. Make the Filling: Mash ½ cup cottage cheese with 2 cloves minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and a little chopped cilantro. Ensure it’s smooth but not runny.

3. Divide and Fill: Split dough into 6-8 portions. Roll each into a small circle, place a spoonful of cottage cheese mixture in the center, fold edges over, and seal. Gently roll again into a flat oval or round.

4. Cook the Naan: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook each naan for 2-3 minutes per side until bubbles form and golden spots appear. Brush with melted butter or ghee immediately after cooking.

5. Serve Warm: Stack on a plate lined with a kitchen towel to keep warm. Best served immediately but also holds well for reheating.

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Storage Options

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 day.

• Refrigeration: Keep in a sealed container for 2-3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven for best texture.

• Freezing: Place naan in a zip-top bag with parchment paper between layers. Freeze up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat in a skillet or oven.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese Variations: Use mozzarella or ricotta instead of cottage cheese.

• Herb Infusions: Add cilantro, mint, or parsley to the dough for an aromatic twist.

• Spicy Naan: Mix finely chopped green chili into the filling for heat.

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour mix.

• Vegan Option: Replace yogurt with soy yogurt and use vegan butter.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought paneer for the filling?
   Yes, ensure it’s soft and fresh for the best texture. Mash it well to avoid lumps.

2. Why is my naan tough?
   This usually happens if the dough is over-kneaded or rolled too thin. Resting the dough helps create softness.

3. Can I bake the naan instead of pan-frying?
   Yes, bake at 220°C (425°F) for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 12 hours. Bring to room temperature before rolling and filling.

5. What should I serve with Cottage Cheese Garlic Naan?
   Curries, dal, soups, or even as a standalone snack with chutney or yogurt dip.

6. How do I reheat naan without making it hard?
   Warm in a skillet or wrap in foil and heat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving directly.

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Conclusion

Cottage Cheese Garlic Naan is a comforting, easy-to-make bread that will elevate any meal. Soft, cheesy, and infused with garlic flavor, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or a cozy weekend treat. Try this recipe, and watch how quickly it becomes a family favorite. Don’t forget to share your delicious results and creative variations!

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