Easy Gochujang Broccoli Side (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Broccoli

01 - 1 large head broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets (approximately 400 g)
02 - 15 ml olive oil or sesame oil
03 - 1.25 ml salt
04 - 1.25 ml black pepper

→ Gochujang Sauce

05 - 30 ml gochujang (Korean fermented chili paste)
06 - 15 ml soy sauce or tamari
07 - 15 ml rice vinegar
08 - 15 ml maple syrup or honey
09 - 5 ml sesame oil
10 - 1 clove garlic, grated
11 - 5 ml grated fresh ginger
12 - 15–30 ml water (to adjust sauce consistency)

→ Optional Garnishes

13 - Sesame seeds
14 - Chopped green onions
15 - Crushed peanuts or cashews
16 - A squeeze of lime or lemon juice

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 220°C. Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
02 - Arrange broccoli in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until edges are crisp and golden.
03 - In a bowl or small saucepan, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sesame oil, grated garlic, and grated ginger. Add water to achieve desired consistency.
04 - Gently warm the sauce over low heat or microwave for 30 seconds to blend flavors, if desired.
05 - Transfer roasted broccoli to a mixing bowl. Drizzle with the prepared gochujang sauce and toss thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly.
06 - Sprinkle with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or crushed nuts as preferred. Serve immediately or store for meal preparation.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - Roasting at high heat ensures crisp edges and wonderful texture. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet for even roasting.
02 - Warming the sauce helps it adhere better to the broccoli, enhancing flavor distribution.