Vegan Garlic Cheese Naan Recipe

Introduction

Vegan Garlic Cheese Naan is a delectable twist on the classic Indian naan bread, combining the aromatic essence of garlic with the indulgent richness of vegan cheese. This plant-based version of naan is not only vegan but also offers a unique blend of flavors and textures that can complement any meal, from hearty curries to fresh salads. Whether you’re a vegan, lactose-intolerant, or simply looking for a delicious bread alternative, this recipe is designed to meet your needs with comprehensive details, measurements, and nutritional information. The following guide provides an in-depth look at making this flavorful naan, including tips, variations, and nutritional data, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

Ingredients

For the Naan Dough:

  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted coconut oil for a different flavor)
  • 2 tbsp plain non-dairy yogurt (such as soy or almond yogurt)

For the Garlic Butter:

  • 3 tbsp vegan butter (or coconut oil, melted)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

For the Cheese Filling:

  • 1 cup vegan shredded cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar)
  • 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (for an extra cheesy flavor)
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley (optional, for added flavor)

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Pour in 1 cup of warm water, stirring gently. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is active and ready to leaven the dough.
  2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the yeast mixture, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 2 tablespoons of plain non-dairy yogurt.
  3. Mix and Knead the Dough: Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a rough dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
  4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
  5. Prepare the Garlic Butter: While the dough is rising, melt 3 tablespoons of vegan butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
  6. Prepare the Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup of vegan shredded cheese, 1 tablespoon of nutritional yeast, and 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh parsley if using. Set aside.
  7. Preheat the Oven or Grill: Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) if using a baking method. If using a grill or stovetop skillet, preheat to medium-high heat. If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven during preheating.
  8. Divide and Roll the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8-10 equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each portion into an oval or tear-drop shape, about ¼ inch thick.
  9. Fill the Naan: Place a small amount of the cheese filling in the center of each rolled-out dough piece. Fold the edges over the filling to encase it and pinch to seal. Gently roll out each filled piece into a naan shape, ensuring the cheese remains inside.
  10. Cook the Naan: If using an oven, place the rolled naan on a parchment-lined baking sheet or preheated pizza stone. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. If using a skillet or grill, cook each naan for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until brown spots appear and the naan is cooked through.
  11. Brush with Garlic Butter: Once the naan is cooked, brush it generously with the prepared garlic butter. Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
  12. Serve Warm: Serve the Vegan Garlic Cheese Naan warm. It pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including curries, soups, and salads.
  13. Store Leftovers: Store any leftover naan in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or skillet before serving. For longer storage, freeze the naan for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen as needed.

Useful Information

  • Flour Types: While all-purpose flour is used here for a classic texture, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour blends if desired. Adjustments may be needed for different flour types.
  • Cheese Options: Vegan shredded cheese can vary in meltability and flavor. Choose a high-quality brand for the best results. You can also use a combination of cheeses to achieve a richer flavor.
  • Garlic Butter Variations: For additional flavors, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice to the garlic butter.
  • Cooking Methods: Naan can be baked, grilled, or cooked on a stovetop skillet. Each method produces slightly different textures, so choose based on your preference and equipment.
  • Dough Rising: Ensure the dough rises in a warm environment. If your kitchen is cold, you can place the dough in an oven with the light on to create a warm environment.

Nutritional Information

Per Naan (assuming 10 naans total):

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Total Fat: 14 g
    • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 24 g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2 g
    • Sugars: 2 g
  • Protein: 6 g

SmartPoints Value

For those following the WW (Weight Watchers) program, these Vegan Garlic Cheese Naans are a flavorful option:

  • SmartPoints (Blue, Green, Purple): 8 points per naan
    • The SmartPoints value may vary slightly based on the specific brands of ingredients used and portion sizes. Adjust points accordingly if using different products.

Conclusion

Vegan Garlic Cheese Naan is a delightful and flavorful alternative to traditional naan, offering the perfect balance of garlic, cheese, and a soft, pillowy texture. This comprehensive recipe provides all the details needed to create this delicious bread, from ingredient measurements to step-by-step instructions. Ideal for any meal, whether as a side or a main feature, this naan brings a touch of indulgence to your vegan dining experience. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures of this vegan bread, knowing it aligns with your dietary goals and preferences.