Naan and pita are Two of the most commonly confused flatbreads because they look so similar. (You know, er…flat.) Both of these leavened breads have deep traditions and are beloved around the world. But there are some key differences between the two.
In this article, we’ll dig into the origins of naan vs pita, key ingredients, and how they’re prepared. As always, don’t forget to check out our favorite naan and pita recipes, linked below!
Naan is an Indian flatbread commonly used for dipping into saucy Indian dishes and for picking up chunks of food. Naan is a leavened flatbread with a soft and chewy texture. Unlike its Greek counterpart—the pita—it is quite large and flavorful.
Naan originated in Inda about 2,500 years ago, under the influence of Persia. The name naan comes from the Farsi or Persian word “non”, which simply means bread. Naan was initially considered a delicacy reserved for nobility.
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.
How to make pita bread
Just like naan, pita is begun by mixing and kneading the dough before letting it rest so that it can rise. The dough is then separated into balls and flattened before resting for a second time.
After about 30 minutes, the flattened dough is cooked in a high-temperature oven for just a few minutes, until the bread puffs up. This creates the signature pocket inside. Out of the oven, they collapse into flatbread and are cut and stuffed with ingredients for serving.
What is traditional pita bread made of?
Pita bread is made with fewer ingredients than naan, containing only whole wheat flour, water, yeast, and salt. Unlike naan, it does not contain yogurt, milk, butter, or olive oil. This is perhaps the main difference between the two.
5 simple ways to use NAAN BREAD in recipes!
FAQ
How is naan bread different from regular bread?
What is special about naan bread?
What is difference between naan and pita?
What bread is closest to naan?
What does naan bread taste like?
Naan is typically known for its rich, buttery taste with a slightly tangy flavor due to the yogurt used in its dough. In contrast, pita has a more plain and subtle taste making it versatile for a variety of fillings and spreads. Which one is a healthier choice: pita or naan bread?
What are the health benefits of naan?
Naan is a type of Indian bread that contains carbohydrates that provide the body with energy. Homemade versions made with whole grains may contain additional benefits such as fiber and probiotics.
Why is Naan better than bread?
Fat: Naan contains more fat, which contributes to its higher calorie count. Protein: Both breads have comparable protein amounts, a crucial nutrient for muscle repair and growth. Fiber: Naan usually offers more dietary fiber, beneficial for your digestive health. Sugar: Depending on the recipe, naan can have slightly higher sugar content.
What is naan bread?
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.