There’s no shame in admitting to some Naan-love now and then. After all, this irresistible flatbread has had the world drooling over it for centuries! Whether it’s the rich, smoky flavors of Tandoori Naan, the aromatic Qandhari Naan (also spelled as Kandhari), or the fragrant Garlic Naan, it’s difficult to pick a favourite. Their differences in taste, texture, and culinary origins hint at a rich history that dates back to centuries. In this blog, we’re diving into the differences between Tandoori, Qandhari Naan, and Garlic Naan, along with a brief history, reheating tips, and delicious pairing ideas to make mealtime easy and tasty.
Whether you’re a busy professional, a family trying to make mealtime convenient, or just someone who loves authentic Naan, this guide is for you. Let’s explore these tasty flatbreads and find out which one (or all) are right for your next meal!
The Rich History Behind These Iconic Naans
Let’s Dive Into the Delicious History of These Naans
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of what makes Tandoori, Qandhari, and Garlic Naan stand out, let’s take a moment to appreciate where they come from. After all, these flatbreads have been winning hearts for centuries!
Tandoori Naan: The Classic Clay Oven Wonder
Tandoori Naan is the OG of naan bread. This bread has roots deep in South Asia, where it’s traditionally baked in a tandoor—a clay oven that gives it that irresistible smoky flavor. The dough is simple: flour, water, and yeast, but the magic happens when it hits the blazing heat of the tandoor. The result? A perfect combination of crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with just a hint of smokiness. Over time, this method became a cornerstone of Indian and Pakistani cuisine. You’ll find it served with just about anything, curries, stews, grilled meats. It’s a go-to favorite that never disappoints.
Qandhari Naan: A Regional Treat
Qandhari Naan, named after the town of Qandhar in Afghanistan, is an irresistible variation. It’s a little different from your classic naan, thanks to the addition of yogurt and sugar in the dough. These ingredients give it a lighter, fluffier texture and just a hint of sweetness. It’s often paired with flavorful stews and meats, but it’s also perfect as a snack on its own. It’s the perfect balance for spicy dishes—sweet, soft, and incredibly comforting.
Tandoori Garlic Naan: A Flavor Lover’s Dream
And then we have Garlic Naan. If you’re a garlic enthusiast, this naan will quickly become your new best friend. Garlic cloves are either kneaded directly into the dough or sprinkled on top before baking, creating an aromatic and bold experience. Garlic Naan is a perfect pairing for rich, savory dishes like butter chicken or dal, where the garlic flavor really cuts through the creaminess and balances out the richness. It’s not just about the garlic, it’s about how that punchy, aromatic flavor elevates your meal.
What Sets These Naans Apart?
Now that we’ve explored the history behind these three tasty flatbreads, let’s break down what really makes them stand out. Here’s the lowdown on the key differences:
- Taste & Texture
- Tandoori Naan: Smoky, crispy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside. It’s got a subtle tang from the yogurt in the dough, which comes through beautifully when baked in the tandoor.
- Qandhari Naan: Slightly sweet and super soft. The yogurt and sugar make it fluffier and lighter, and tastes great with spicy stews or grilled meats.
- Garlic Naan: Bold and savory, with a strong garlic punch. If you love garlic, this one’s your dream naan, and it pairs perfectly with rich, creamy curries or spicy dishes.
2. Ingredients & Cooking Method
- Tandoori Naan: Made with flour, yeast, water, and yogurt, cooked at high heat in a tandoor (clay oven). The high heat adds a smoky char to the bread.
- Qandhari Naan: Similar to Tandoori Naan but with added sugar and yogurt to make it softer and fluffier. This version is typically not baked in a tandoor but on a flat griddle.
- Garlic Naan: Similar to Tandoori Naan, but with garlic either mixed into the dough or sprinkled on top. It’s often brushed with butter or ghee after baking for a rich, aromatic finish.
3. Pairing & Uses
- Tandoori Naan: Pairs perfectly with rich curries, tandoori meats, or grilled vegetables. It’s an all-around versatile bread.
- Qandhari Naan: Great with stews, meats, or even as a snack on its own. Its subtle sweetness complements spicy dishes.
- Garlic Naan: Ideal for pairing with creamy, rich dishes like butter chicken or chickpea curry. The garlic flavor balances out the richness of these dishes.
How to Reheat Frozen Naan (Taza Naan to the Rescue!)
Who has time to make naan from scratch? If you’re raising your hand here, well, you are definitely a rare find. In our busy lifestyles and with a multitude of to-do lists always popping up, devoting time to extensive cooking techniques is no longer a luxury many of us can afford. Frozen naan is a lifesaver! But how do you reheat frozen naan without losing that perfect texture?
Here’s a simple guide for reheating your frozen Taza Naan:
In the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the frozen naan on a baking sheet and cover it with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 4-6 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 2-3 minutes to get a golden, crispy finish.
On the Stovetop
- Heat a skillet or tawa over medium-high heat.
- Place the frozen naan directly onto the dry skillet.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until it’s hot and slightly crisped.
In the Microwave
- Place the frozen naan on a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave for 30-45 seconds. (Note: This won’t make it crispy, but it will warm it up quickly!)
Now, you’re ready to enjoy a delicious, easy meal in no time.
So Which Naan Has You Drooling?!
It all comes down to your flavor preferences and what you’re pairing it with. If you’re looking for a smoky, traditional taste, go for Tandoori Naan. For a milder, sweeter option, try Qandhari Naan. And if you’re a garlic lover, Garlic Naan is your go-to choice.
The best part? You don’t have to wait for the perfect moment to enjoy these delicious flatbreads. With Taza Naan, you can stock up on these tasty varieties and enjoy them whenever hunger strikes.
Want to get your hands on these delectable naans? Taza Naan is available across several states in the United States, so why not make your next meal a breeze? Visit our website to check out locations that carry your Taza favourite naans in the US!
