39 Across

NYT Daily • August 2, 2025

Cousin of naan

Answer:

ROTI

Hint:

["**Hint:** This unleavened flatbread is a staple in many South Asian meals, often served with curries or vegetables.\n\n*(This hint guides the solver by emphasizing the bread's common usage and preparation style without directly naming it or repeating the original clue.)*"]

Explanation:

The clue **"Cousin of naan"** leads to the answer **"ROTI"** through a straightforward culinary and cultural reference. - **Naan** and **roti** are both types of flatbreads commonly found in South Asian cuisine, particularly in Indian, Pakistani, and other regional cuisines. - The word **"cousin"** suggests a close relation or similarity, implying that the answer is another type of bread akin to naan. - **Roti** is a simpler, unleavened flatbread, whereas naan is typically leavened and cooked in a tandoor, making them close but distinct relatives in the world of bread. Thus, the clue cleverly hints at another well-known flatbread that shares a cultural and culinary connection with naan.

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