Easy Gochujang Broccoli

This Easy Gochujang Broccoli is a bold, spicy-sweet Korean-inspired side dish that’s healthy, fast, and absolutely addictive. Tender broccoli florets are tossed in a flavorful gochujang sauce, then quickly roasted or sautéed for a crispy edge and deep umami flavor. It’s a great way to spice up your veggies and makes a perfect side for rice bowls, noodles, or protein-packed mains.

Love bold Asian flavors with minimal effort? Subscribe now and get easy fusion recipes straight to your inbox!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bold Korean Flavors – Gochujang brings heat, sweetness, and depth.
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes with just one pan.
Healthy & Plant-Based – Naturally vegan and full of fiber.
Great as a Side or Main – Serve with rice, tofu, or noodles.
Crispy, Saucy, and Satisfying – The perfect texture and taste combo.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 tbsp neutral oil (avocado or vegetable)
• 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp grated ginger (optional for extra kick)

Optional Garnishes:

• Toasted sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions
• Crushed peanuts or cashews
• Lime wedges for serving

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet or skillet
• Parchment paper (if roasting)
• Spatula or tongs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Option 1: Roasted Gochujang Broccoli

Step 1: Prep the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.

Step 2: Toss the Broccoli
2. In a large bowl, toss broccoli florets with oil and half of the gochujang sauce. Reserve the other half for drizzling later.

Step 3: Roast
3. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
4. Spread broccoli on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 15–18 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until edges are crispy and lightly charred.

Step 4: Finish & Serve
6. Drizzle with remaining sauce and toss to coat.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot.

Option 2: Sautéed Gochujang Broccoli

Step 1: Prep Sauce and Broccoli

1. Whisk sauce ingredients as above.
2. Steam broccoli lightly (2–3 minutes) or microwave until just tender.

Step 2: Cook on Stovetop
3. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add broccoli and stir-fry for 3–5 minutes until slightly browned.
5. Pour in gochujang sauce and cook for another 2 minutes, tossing to coat.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve
6. Remove from heat, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Gochujang Broccoli
Don’t Overcook – Keep broccoli crisp-tender for best texture.
Balance the Sauce – Add more maple syrup or vinegar to adjust sweetness/tang.
Use Fresh Garlic – Gives a nice aromatic bite.
Double the Sauce – It’s great on rice, noodles, or other veggies too!
Make It a Meal – Serve over grains with tofu, chicken, or a fried egg.

Serving Suggestions
With Rice or Quinoa – Simple and satisfying.
In Grain Bowls – Add avocado, pickled veggies, and tofu.
Alongside Dumplings – Pairs well with steamed or pan-fried dumplings.
With Noodles – Spoon over soba or ramen for a spicy twist.
As a Meal Prep Side – Holds up well in the fridge for a few days.

How to Store & Reheat

Store:
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat:
Microwave – 1–2 minutes until warm.
Skillet – Reheat with a splash of water or extra sauce over medium heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is gochujang?
It’s a Korean fermented chili paste—spicy, sweet, and savory all at once. You’ll find it in the Asian section of most grocery stores.

2. Can I make this less spicy?
Yes—use half the gochujang and add more maple syrup or soy sauce.

3. Is it gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check that your gochujang is certified gluten-free.

4. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Just thaw and pat dry before roasting or stir-frying.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Gochujang Broccoli is a fiery, flavor-packed dish that takes your everyday broccoli to the next level. Whether you roast or stir-fry, it’s a simple way to make healthy food exciting. Pair it with rice, noodles, or protein for a complete meal—or just enjoy it straight off the baking tray!

Try it once and you’ll keep coming back to this punchy, plant-powered favorite.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Korean-Inspired – Bold & Healthy

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 4 servings):
Calories: 120 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 12g | Fat: 7g | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g | Sodium: 480mg

Print