Cheese Naan

Step 1

Combine flour, yeast, salt, baking powder, and baking soda in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Mix on low until the dry ingredients are well combined. Add the yogurt and warm water. Mix on low speed until a rough dough forms. Switch to the dough hook attachment and knead on medium-low for about 4 minutes. The dough may seem very sticky at first but will become more manageable as it kneads. Avoid adding extra flour.

Step 2

Flour a work surface generously. Turn the dough out onto it and sprinkle with more flour. Knead briefly to form a smooth ball. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape each into a ball. The dough will be quite sticky, so dampen your hands to handle it more easily. If it is too sticky, incorporate a bit more flour.

Step 3

Flour a piece of parchment paper and place the dough balls on it. Flour the tops of the dough balls. Cover with another piece of parchment paper and let rise for 1 hour.

Step 4

On a floured surface, roll each dough ball flat with a rolling pin to about ¼ inch thick, or slightly thinner. Lightly flour as needed. Place a small handful of shredded mozzarella in the center of each dough piece. Fold the edges over the cheese. Twist the ends together and pinch to seal. Place the seam-side down and gently roll the dough again to flatten, making sure the cheese remains enclosed. Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.

Step 5

Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. To test the heat, sprinkle a few drops of water in the pan; if they sizzle and evaporate immediately, the pan is ready. Place a naan into the hot skillet. Cover and cook until bubbles appear on the top (about 30-60 seconds). Flip and cook until the dough loses its raw appearance and starts to char in spots (about 30 seconds more).

Step 6

Transfer the cooked naan to a plate and cover with a towel to keep warm. Melt the butter and mix with minced cilantro, if using. Brush the warm naan with the butter mixture immediately to lock in moisture and ensure softness.

Step 7

Wait a few minutes before serving because the cheese inside will be hot like lava when fresh off the pan! Keep naan warm in a serving dish covered with a clean towel.