A Guide to Eating Indian Food: How to Enjoy Naan Bread and More!
Indian cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors, aromas, and textures that have delighted food enthusiasts worldwide. From the rich curries to the fragrant spices, every bite tells a story of tradition and culture. Among the staples of Indian cuisine is naan bread, a soft, pillowy flatbread that serves as the perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes. If you’re new to Indian food or looking to enhance your dining experience, this guide will walk you through the art of eating naan and more.
Appreciating Naan Bread
What is Naan Bread?
Naan is a leavened, oven-baked flatbread that originated in India and is now beloved globally. It’s typically made from a simple dough of flour, yeast, water, salt, and sometimes yogurt. The dough is rolled out and then cooked in a hot tandoor, a clay oven, resulting in its signature fluffy texture and slightly charred exterior.
Most Popular Flavors of Naan Bread:
At Indian restaurants, one of the most popular flavors of naan bread is garlic naan. This aromatic and flavorful variation of the classic naan is infused with minced garlic and often topped with fresh cilantro. The combination of the soft, pillowy bread and the savory garlic creates a heavenly aroma and taste that pairs perfectly with a variety of Indian dishes. Garlic naan adds a delightful kick to any meal, making it a favorite among diners seeking a bit of extra flavor and indulgence in their dining experience.
How to Eat Naan Bread:
Tear and Dip
One of the most common ways to enjoy naan is to tear off a piece and use it to scoop up your curry or other dishes. Simply tear off a small portion, fold it to create a scoop-like shape, and dip it into the flavorful curry or sauce.
Roll and Fill
If you’re enjoying stuffed naan, such as garlic naan or paneer naan, you can roll it up and eat it like a wrap. This method allows you to savor the filling along with the soft bread.
Pair with Chutney
Naan pairs wonderfully with various chutneys and dips. Try it with mango chutney, mint chutney, or a spicy tomato-based dip for an explosion of flavors.
Create a Naan Pizza
For a fun twist, use naan as a base for a quick and easy Indian-inspired pizza. Top it with your favorite ingredients such as paneer, vegetables, and a sprinkle of cheese, then bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Sop up Sauces
Don’t let any of the delicious sauce from your curry go to waste. Use torn pieces of naan to sop up every last bit, ensuring you get a bit of everything in each bite.
Embrace Eating with Your Hands
In many Indian restaurants, it’s common to eat with your hands, especially when enjoying dishes like biryani or thali meals. Don’t be shy—washing your hands before and after the meal is part of the experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned Indian food enthusiast or a curious newcomer, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in this rich and flavorful cuisine. So, the next time you sit down to enjoy a meal of aromatic curries, crispy dosas, and fluffy naan, remember these tips to savor every bite and embrace the diverse world of Indian flavors. Bon appétit, or as they say in India, “Khana Mazaa Aya!” (Enjoy your meal!)
Since 1998, India Bistro in Ballard has been a beacon of authentic and mouthwatering Indian cuisine in Seattle. Our time-honored naan recipe, perfected over generations, is just one of the many highlights on our menu. Join us to savor our delicious naan bread and an array of other Indian delights. For a quick and satisfying lunch, indulge in our daily lunch buffet available Monday through Saturday. Can’t make it in? No worries! We also offer convenient takeout and delivery options to enjoy our flavors wherever you are.
India Bistro Ballard