originating from over 2,500 years ago, naan, today identified as a leavened indian flatbread, traces its history back to old iran or persia, where the word “naan” referred to bread baked on hot pebbles.
traditionally baked at high heat in a hot tandoor (clay oven) with charcoal or wood fire, naan was served as breakfast to mughal nobles, from where it evolved to being served at many indian restaurants.
today, naan has traveled a long way in becoming a favorite with multiple gravy-based dishes in indian cuisine and a staple in iran, south asia, and many middle eastern countries.
as a fine dining indian restaurant, our aim with naan indian bistro is to deliver a culinary experience that south jersey has never experienced before. much like naan, our journey is one between cultures and flavors. our aim is to offer our guests a glimpse into our beloved homeland, while reflecting on and embracing the melody of both tradition and modernity in our food.
with an illustrious 5000-year old history, the legacy of indian cuisine is one for the books. influenced initially by mongolian, persian and chinese cuisines through years of cultural intermingling, and later on by mughal, british, french, dutch, and portuguese influence through years of colonization, indian food has emerged as a diverse and inclusive cuisine, bringing distinct flavors and cooking techniques in the form of decadent and sumptuous dishes that leave a lasting impression.
FAQs
originating from over 2,500 years ago, naan, today identified as a leavened indian flatbread, traces its history back to old iran or persia, where the word “naan” referred to bread baked on hot pebbles.
Why is naan important to Indian culture? ›
Originally, naan was developed after the arrival of yeast in India from Egypt. During India's Mughal era in the 1520s, Naan was a delicacy that only nobles and royal families enjoyed because the art of making Naan was a revered skill, known by few.
What is the story of naan? ›
Ancient Beginnings:
The word “nan” comes from the Persian language and means bread. Over time, naan became popular in many cultures, including India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. It was traditionally cooked in a tandoor oven, which gave it its signature fluffy texture and slightly charred flavour.
What does naan mean in Indian? ›
The term "naan" comes from Persian nân (Persian: نان), a generic word for any kind of bread. This word was borrowed into a range of languages in the Indian subcontinent and Central Asia, where it came to refer to a specific type of bread. The term then spread around the globe along with the style of bread itself.
What are some interesting facts about naan? ›
originating from over 2,500 years ago, naan, today identified as a leavened indian flatbread, traces its history back to old iran or persia, where the word “naan” referred to bread baked on hot pebbles.
What makes naan special? ›
Unlike these more everyday staples, naan are leavened, traditionally with wild yeast. Naan are also cooked in a tandoor, a large clay oven layered with glowing charcoal that reaches extremely high temperatures.
What is good about naan? ›
While it may contain more carbs and sugars, it earns its reputation as a healthy alternative with its relatively generous amounts of protein and fiber. Despite its high carb content, naan can be considered a more nutrient-dense alternative to white bread and pita.
Is naan bread Chinese or Indian? ›
Naan is an Indian flatbread made from wheat dough, which is traditionally baked against the side of a tandoor oven and then coated with ghee (clarified butter). It is often served as a side dish to curries and other main meals. Naan is mainly eaten in the Punjab region and the north of the country.
What makes naan bread different? ›
The name comes from the Persian word, non, for bread. Unlike pita, naan has yogurt, milk, and sometimes eggs or butter in it, resulting in a softer texture. When the dough is made, bakers shape it into a ball and slap it on the interior walls of a tandoor, a clay oven. The bread puffs up and bubbles as it cooks.
What is traditional naan made from? ›
6 Answers. Naan traditionally is plain flat bread made using bread flour, Yeast, salt and water. Its cooked in tandoor.
Butter Naan is one of the most loved naans in India. You could judge this from the fact that this naan is usually the only one served in most of the weddings. The use of butter over this naan makes it soft and easy to chew.
Why is naan famous in India? ›
Due to the lengthy process of making a leavened bread, naan historically was available primarily to royalty. The breads, accompanied with kebabs and keema (minced-beef curry), became popular among the Mughal nobility in the 1500s.
Is naan authentic Indian food? ›
Naan is a leavened, oven-baked flatbread native to India. It resembles pita bread but unlike pita, it has yogurt, milk, sometimes eggs or butter which makes it softer than the pita bread. Our bakers shape it into a ball and slap it on the walls of our tandoor (clay oven).
Why do people eat naan? ›
Side Bread
Traditionally with Indian food, naan (or other various Indian breads) is served as an accompaniment to curry, chutney, saag paneers, etc. to scoop the contents of your meal up. In Italy, bread is served with your meal, and used to scoop the remaining pasta sauce from the bowl ('fare la scarpetta').
Do Indians eat naan everyday? ›
Naan is a cornerstone of Indian cuisine, integral to both daily meals and special occasions, offering a versatile complement to a variety of dishes.
What is the history of bread in India? ›
Chapathis and rotis date back to the Harappan civilisation in India. They even find mention in Tulsidas's Ram Charitamanas in the 16th century, where it is said to resemble the katori that it was served in and was known as 'Rotika'.
