From dhabas to world fame: India’s butter garlic naan tops global bread rankings

India’s butter garlic naan rises to global fame as TasteAtlas names it the world’s best bread (Image: Pinterest)

Indians have always known the magic of tearing into a steaming, buttery garlic naan.Now, the world agrees. TasteAtlas has crowned butter garlic naan the best bread in the world in its March 2025 rankings, giving it an impressive score of 4.7 out of 5.

This bread, soft and light with a tempting garlic smell and lots of butter, has always been a star on Indian dinner tables. People make it with white flour, salt, sugar, and yoghurt. They roll out the dough and cook it in a very hot clay oven called a tandoor. When it's puffy and golden, they brush it with butter or ghee to make it melt in your mouth. The result? You get crispy edges, a fluffy middle, and a comforting garlic smell in every bite.

A Global Favourite with Local Roots

While the world is just discovering its charm, Indians have always seen butter garlic naan as more than a side dish — it’s comfort, warmth, and a little act of self-love. Whether paired with spicy curries, smoky kebabs, or enjoyed solo, it’s the epitome of soul food.

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The TasteAtlas rankings read like a global tour of beloved breads. Amritsari Kulcha — another Punjabi favourite known for its crispy crust and spicy potato filling — claimed the second spot. Malaysia’s Roti Canai, which has roots in India, grabbed third place, a nod to the shared culinary heritage of the subcontinent. Colombia’s Pan de Bono and India’s Parotta rounded off the top five, showing how dough, fire, and flavour transcend borders.

India’s Bread Glory Continues

The celebration doesn’t stop there. TasteAtlas recognised several other Indian breads on its list: Parotta took the 6th spot, classic Naan ranked 8th, and Paratha landed 18th for its wholesome, stuffed variations. Bhatura (26th), Aloo Naan (28th), and Roti (35th) also made it to the rankings — each representing India’s unmatched culinary diversity and love for all things freshly baked.

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From roadside dhabas to Michelin-starred kitchens, naan has become a global comfort food. Its appeal lies in its simplicity — a humble dough transformed by heat, heart, and heritage.As TasteAtlas puts it, butter garlic naan isn’t just food — it’s culture. A link between tradition and modernity, nostalgia and innovation.And now, with worldwide recognition to match its timeless charm, India’s favourite bread has officially taken its rightful place on the world’s table.