How To Improve Store Bought Naan Bread!

Choosing the Right Store-Bought Naan Bread

Finding the perfect store-bought naan bread can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be.

To help you out, here are some key factors to consider when purchasing naan bread from your local grocery store…

First and foremost, look for naan bread that is tandoor baked.

This traditional baking method gives naan its distinct taste and texture, ensuring an authentic experience at home. You can usually find this information on the product label or packaging.

When it comes to the ingredients, try to find naan bread without any added preservatives.

These additives can affect the taste and may not be ideal for a healthy diet.

Healthline also suggests choosing whole grain naan bread options when possible as it has additional benefits, such as higher fibre content and nutrients.

Not all naan breads in the grocery store are made equal, and they may come in different flavors and textures.

Pay attention to the varieties available, such as garlic, onion, or plain, and select one that best suits your taste and the dishes you plan to serve with the naan.

When storing the naan at home, place it in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature to keep it fresh for a more extended period.

Enhancing Flavour and Texture

Improving store bought naan bread can be as simple as adding a few key ingredients and employing a few useful techniques.

By following some easy steps, you can transform your store bought naan into a delightful and flavourful treat that you’ll be proud to serve…

Add Herbs and Spices

Infusing your naan bread with herbs and spices can elevate its taste significantly.

For instance, you can make a simple garlic naan by adding a mixture of crushed garlic and melted butter to the bread.

Other spices, such as cumin, turmeric, and coriander, can also be used to add depth to the flavour.

Additionally, simply sprinkling some salt or garlic powder on top can enhance the overall taste of your naan bread.

Introduce Butter and Ghee

Adding butter or ghee to your naan bread can significantly improve its texture and flavour.

You can lightly brush the surface of the bread with melted butter or ghee before heating it in the oven or in a skillet.

This not only gives the naan a richer taste, but also prevents it from drying out during the reheating process.

Garnish with Seeds and Nuts

For an extra touch of flavour and presentation, add some seeds or nuts to your naan bread.

Sesame seeds, for example, can be sprinkled on top and lightly toasted in the oven along with the bread.

Nigella seeds, another popular option, can add a slightly bitter flavour that works well with the savoury taste of naan.

Additionally, crushed nuts like cashews and almonds can provide a delightful crunch, adding texture and a delicious taste to your store bought naan.

Ideal Cooking Methods for Store-Bought Naan Bread

Using an Oven

Reheating naan bread in a preheated oven is an excellent method to achieve a delicious, warm naan. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and placing the naan on a baking sheet.

Optionally, you can brush the naan with a little ghee for added flavour.

Wrap the naan bread with aluminum foil and place it in the oven for approximately 10-15 minutes, until the naan is warmed through and slightly crispy.

Stovetop Techniques

A skillet or frying pan can also be used to reheat and improve store-bought naan bread.

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of ghee.

Once the ghee has melted, place the naan bread in the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until it’s warmed and has a light golden colour.

An alternative stovetop technique is steaming.

Boil some water in a pan and tightly cover it with aluminium foil, poking a few holes in the foil. Place the naan bread on top and allow it to steam for a few minutes. This method helps to maintain the naan’s soft texture while warming it evenly.

The Microwave Method

While not the most flavourful method, using a microwave is a quick and convenient way to reheat naan bread.

Wrap the naan in a slightly dampened paper towel or cover it with a damp cloth.

Place the wrapped naan on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for about 30 seconds.

If needed, check the naan and continue heating in 15-second increments until it’s warmed through.

However, using a microwave may result in a slightly softer texture compared to other methods.

Air Fryer Method

Air fryers can also be used to reheat naan bread effectively.

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C) and place the naan bread in the air fryer basket.

Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes or until the naan is warmed through and has a slightly crispy texture. Make sure to keep an eye on the naan to ensure it doesn’t overcook or become too crunchy.

By trying these various methods, you’ll find the optimal approach to enjoy your store-bought naan bread, serving it as if it’s fresh from the tandoor.

Storing and Reheating Naan Bread

Freezing Techniques

Freezing is an excellent way to preserve the freshness and extend the life of store-bought naan bread.

Here are a few steps to properly freeze naan bread:

1. Allow the naan bread to cool down completely if it is warm.
2. Wrap each individual piece of naan bread in plastic wrap or aluminium foil to protect it from freezer burn and retain moisture. Alternatively, place the naan bread in an airtight container.
3. Label the container or wrapped naan bread with the date, so you can keep track of how long it has been stored in the freezer.
4. Place the wrapped naan bread or container into the freezer. Keep in mind that properly stored, frozen naan bread can last up to three months.

Refrigerating and Storing

If you’re not looking to freeze your naan bread, you’ll want to store it correctly at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

To ensure optimal freshness, take the following steps:

1. Place the leftover naan bread in an airtight container or wrap it securely in plastic wrap. This helps keep it moist and prevents it from drying out.
2. Store the naan bread in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat, such as a pantry or kitchen cupboard. When properly stored at room temperature, naan bread can last up to a week.
3. If you prefer, you can also refrigerate naan bread. Just ensure it is stored in an airtight container or wrapped securely to maintain moisture. Refrigerated naan bread can last up to two weeks.