Naan: How the 'world's best bread' travelled from Islamic courts to our plates

Naan, a leavened flatbread, was once the food of nobility but is now a global culinary delight.

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And while the tangy, aromatic gravy is often considered the show stealer, it would lose much of its charm in the absence of its understated partner.

The naan's chewiness adds texture to every bite; its subtle flavour complements the gravy's spices and seasonings. In fact, the versatile naan diligently props up whatever it is paired with, allowing the main dish to shine.

That's probably why this flatbread has become one of the most popular breads in the world. Recently, butter garlic naan - a flavour-packed rendition of the traditional naan - topped Taste Atlas' best breads list.

It is made by brushing butter onto a piping hot naan and sprinkling a generous amount of chopped garlic on it. Also on the list was aloo naan - made by stuffing the naan with potatoes seasoned with spices and coriander.