Cottage Cheese Garlic Naan

There is something so satisfying about making cottage cheese garlic naan from scratch The creamy cottage cheese makes the naan extra soft and pillowy with just a touch of tang while the pockets of fresh garlic add a burst of flavor You do not even need yeast or much kneading so it is weeknight friendly yet feels special enough to serve with a dinner party spread

I first tried this as a way to use up extra cottage cheese and now it has become a family go to for curry nights The aroma of garlic and butter brings everyone to the kitchen

Ingredients

• Cottage cheese: full fat cottage cheese keeps the bread moist and gives the signature softness Choose a fresh creamy brand for best texture
• Eggs: help bind and give structure resulting in rich golden naan Use fresh eggs to avoid any sulfur taste
• All purpose flour: the backbone of the dough Look for unbleached flour for more flavor
• Almond flour: brings a little nutty depth and tenderness Choose finely ground almond flour for a smooth texture
• Baking powder: gives rise and lightness Make sure it is fresh for a good puff
• Salt: essential for balance and savoriness I prefer fine sea salt for even mixing
• Fresh garlic: creates the signature flavor Use plump firm cloves
• Butter: used for brushing adds richness Choose high quality unsalted butter
• Chopped parsley or cilantro: for a fresh finish Select bright green bunches with no wilt

Instructions

Blend the Wet Ingredients:

In a blender or food processor combine cottage cheese and eggs Blend until completely smooth and silky with no lumps left About 30 seconds

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl whisk together all purpose flour almond flour baking powder and salt Mix thoroughly so the baking powder is evenly dispersed

Combine Wet and Dry:

Pour cottage cheese egg mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients Use a spatula to gently fold together Stop as soon as you have a sticky dough to avoid overmixing

Add Garlic:

Mix in the minced fresh garlic until evenly incorporated If garlic is very strong let it rest for 5 minutes to mellow

Shape the Dough:

Lightly flour your hands and your work surface Pinch off small golf ball sized pieces of dough then flatten into ovals about one quarter inch thick Aim for even thickness for consistent cooking

Heat the Pan and Cook:

Place a non stick or cast iron skillet over medium heat Brush lightly with melted butter Once hot lay naan into the pan Cook each side for two to three minutes until golden spots appear and naan puffs Flip and repeat

Butter and Garnish:

While still warm brush naan with more melted butter and sprinkle generously with parsley or cilantro for brightness Serve hot

My favorite part is watching the naan puff up and turn golden in the skillet The first time I let my son help brush the melted butter his smile was as big as the naan itself Now we always make it together

Storage Tips

To keep naan soft store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to twenty four hours For longer storage refrigerate for up to three days Reheat quickly on a warm skillet with a dab of butter or in a toaster

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use gluten free all purpose flour for a wheat free option and swap almond flour for oat flour if needed Greek yogurt also works in place of cottage cheese but the naan will be less fluffy If you have lactose concerns try a lactose free cottage cheese

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with any curries tikka masala or spiced lentil soups They are perfect for scooping up stews or as a base for toppings like avocado and tomato I love using leftovers for a hearty breakfast by topping with a fried egg

Cultural and Seasonal Adaptations

Naan is a traditional bread from the Indian subcontinent This version reinvents it with cottage cheese making it softer and higher in protein In the summer sprinkle chopped chives or microgreens over finished naan In the winter brush naan with ghee and a pinch of smoked chili for deeper flavor

The aroma of freshly cooked garlic naan will make your kitchen inviting and warm Enjoy with your favorite curry or simply as a savory snack any day of the week

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I achieve a fluffy texture in this naan?

Blending cottage cheese and eggs creates a smooth base, while baking powder gently leavens for light, fluffy results.

→ Can I substitute the all-purpose or almond flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose or omit almond flour for a slightly denser texture.

→ What's the best way to shape the dough?

Lightly flour your hands, roll dough into golf ball size portions, then flatten each into an oval for even cooking.

→ Which pan works best for cooking?

A non-stick or cast iron pan heats evenly and gives a nice, golden crust while keeping the naan soft.

→ How can I enhance the flavor?

Brush warm naan with extra butter and finish with chopped parsley or cilantro for fresh, aromatic notes.