Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (about 2 large heads) broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup water (or vegetable broth)
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like avocado or canola), for tossing
- For garnish: toasted sesame seeds
- For garnish: sliced green onions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, ensuring your broccoli doesn't stick.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, maple syrup (or honey), rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and water (or vegetable broth) until well combined and smooth. This is your vibrant, flavor-packed gochujang glaze.
- Place the broccoli florets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with the neutral oil and toss gently to coat evenly. This crucial step helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Pour the prepared gochujang glaze over the oiled broccoli florets. Toss thoroughly with tongs or your hands until every piece of broccoli is generously coated in the rich, spicy sauce. Ensure the florets are spread in a single layer for optimal roasting and caramelization.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp and the edges are slightly caramelized and charred. Halfway through roasting (around the 10-12 minute mark), give the broccoli a gentle toss to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Once roasted to perfection, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Transfer the zesty gochujang roasted broccoli to a serving dish.
- Garnish generously with toasted sesame seeds and freshly sliced green onions before serving warm. Enjoy this sensational side as is, or paired with your favorite main course!
Notes
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of gochujang to your preference. For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. For a milder flavor, start with 1 tablespoon of gochujang. Serving Suggestions: This easy gochujang broccoli is fantastic as a side to grilled chicken, baked fish, or alongside a bowl of steamed rice and a fried egg for a quick, satisfying meal. It’s also delicious as a light vegetarian main dish! Air Fryer Option: For an even crispier result, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping. Make Ahead: The gochujang sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, saving you precious prep time. Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Korean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg