Nostalgic Naan

The story of naan begins in ancient India, influenced by the cultures that traversed India’s lands. The origin of naan can be traced back to the Indian subcontinent, during the era of the Mughal Empire (Raikar). Its name derives from the Persian word nan, hinting at its widespread popularity during the time of Persian and Mughal influences (Antani). As different cultures intertwined, culinary experiments flourished, resulting in this iconic bread (Raikar). Naan stems from wheat, which thrives in the fertile plains of northern India, Pakistan, and surrounding regions.

The versatility of naan played a pivotal role in its global acclaim. Perfect as an accompaniment to many dishes, from spicy gravies to succulent kebabs, its soft texture and unique taste make it universally loved. Its adaptability means it can be flavored, stuffed, or even used as a wrap, catering to diverse palates. Scholar Ashis Nandy explains the more modern approach to food culture, evolving under the dual forces of tradition and globalization, saying this shift reflects "a complex interplay of health, identity, and commerce,” urging her audience to juxtapose the forces at play in modern Indian culture, with the historical aspects of the cuisine (Nandy).

My first experience with Naan, naturally, was sitting at my very own dining room table. My mom spent hours over the stove each evening, crafting my family amazing meals almost every day. From plain naan, to garlic naan, to bullet naan (don’t get my Dad started on this one), she made just about everything, and of course, we devoured it. 

Naan represents more than just delicious bread for us to eat, though; it is a tapestry of memories, emotions, and family bonds. It represents the time I spent fighting with my brother. It represents my injuries from falling down the stairs. It represents my mother’s innate love. It represents her heart.