Spicy Gochujang Broccoli Wings

Nut-free

These spicy broccoli wings are baked, not fried. The sauce on these wings combines spicy gochujang with maple syrup and liquid smoke for a combination of spicy, sweet and smoky. If you aren’t familiar with gochujang, it’s a red chili paste made from red pepper flakes, glutinous rice and fermented soybeans, and is popular in Korean cooking. If you’re a fan of gochujang and this recipe, make sure to try our Rice Bowls with Marinated Tofu and Gochujang Sauce.

Spicy Gochujang Broccoli Wings is a creative and flavorful take on classic broccoli, transforming this humble vegetable into a delectable dish that’s both spicy and satisfying. Inspired by the popular concept of “wings,” these broccoli florets are coated in a rich and spicy gochujang sauce, adding a new dimension of taste and excitement to this nutritious vegetable.

The recipe starts with preparing the broccoli by dunking it into a simple batter made from all-purpose flour and water. Baking the battered broccoli results in a satisfyingly crispy exterior, reminiscent of traditional fried “wings,” but with a healthy twist.

The star of the show is the gochujang sauce, a staple in Korean cuisine known for its spicy, savory, and slightly sweet profile. The sauce is a blend of gochujang paste, sesame oil, soy sauce, maple syrup or agave for a touch of sweetness, and fresh minced ginger for a hint of warmth. This sauce is what gives the broccoli its irresistible kick.

The combination of the crispy battered broccoli and the bold gochujang sauce creates a dynamic contrast in both texture and flavor. The crispiness of the battered broccoli provides a satisfying crunch, while the gochujang sauce delivers a burst of complex flavors that range from spicy to tangy.

Once the battered broccoli is baked to perfection and coated with the gochujang sauce, the dish is topped with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. These garnishes add a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor, enhancing the overall presentation and taste.

Spicy Gochujang Broccoli Wings make an excellent choice for parties, game nights, or simply when you’re craving a unique and tasty snack. The dish brings a touch of excitement to the table, making it a hit among both broccoli enthusiasts and those looking to explore new flavors.

Spicy Gochujang Broccoli Wings demonstrate that with a little creativity and the right combination of flavors, even a seemingly ordinary vegetable like broccoli can become an extraordinary culinary experience. The fusion of crispy battered broccoli with the bold and spicy gochujang sauce is a testament to the power of experimentation in the kitchen. Whether you’re a fan of spicy foods or simply looking for a new way to enjoy broccoli, this recipe offers a delightful journey for your taste buds.

PREP TIME: 15 minutes

COOK TIME: 35 to 40 minutes

YIELD: 4 servings

INGREDIENTS:

FOR BATTERED BROCCOLI

• 1 large head broccoli
• 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240 ml) water

FOR GOCHUJANG SAUCE 

• 3 tbsp (60 g) gochujang
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) soy sauce
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) pure maple syrup or agave
• ¼ tsp liquid smoke (optional)
• 1 (1” [2.5-cm]) piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced

FOR SERVING

• 1 green onion, chopped
• Sesame seeds

INSTRUCTIONS:

FOR BROCCOLI

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and water to create the batter.
4. Dunk each piece of broccoli into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated. You can either mix all the broccoli in the bowl or individually coat each piece.
5. Arrange the battered broccoli in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Allow any excess batter to drip off before placing the broccoli on the sheet.
6. Bake the battered broccoli for 35 to 40 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through the cooking time. The goal is to achieve a crispy texture.

FOR SAUCE

1. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the gochujang, sesame oil, soy sauce, maple syrup or agave, liquid smoke (if using), and minced fresh ginger. This flavorful sauce will add a kick of taste to the dish.

TO SERVE

1. Once the battered broccoli is done baking and has achieved a crispy texture, transfer all the pieces into the bowl with the gochujang sauce.
2. Gently toss the battered broccoli in the sauce until each piece is thoroughly coated with the delicious flavors.
3. To serve, arrange the coated battered broccoli on a plate or in a bowl.
4. Top the dish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an added layer of freshness and texture.
5. Enjoy the Battered Broccoli with Gochujang Sauce as a delightful appetizer, snack, or side dish that boasts a perfect balance of crunch, flavor, and spice.