Vegan Spicy Glazed Popcorn Broccoli – A Crispy, Flavorful Snack

Imagine biting into a piece of broccoli so crispy and flavorful that it feels like a decadent treat. Vegan Spicy Glazed Popcorn Broccoli is the snack you never knew you needed. Coated in a crunchy batter and tossed in a sweet and spicy glaze, this recipe transforms broccoli into an irresistible bite-sized delight. Whether you’re looking for a plant-based appetizer, a healthier snack, or a fun side dish, this recipe is here to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Flavorful: Each floret is coated in a perfectly seasoned batter and baked to golden perfection.
• Sweet and Spicy Glaze: The chili-infused glaze balances sweetness with a kick of heat.
• Plant-Based Goodness: 100% vegan and packed with nutrients from the broccoli.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible to everyone.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a snack, appetizer, or even a side dish.

Ingredients for Vegan Spicy Glazed Popcorn Broccoli

Category	Ingredient	Quantity
Popcorn Broccoli	Broccoli florets	2 cups
	Non-dairy milk (e.g., almond)	1 cup
	Apple cider vinegar	1 teaspoon
	Hot sauce	1 teaspoon
	All-purpose flour	3/4 cup
	Panko bread crumbs	1/4 cup
	Corn starch	2 tablespoons
	Baking soda	1/2 teaspoon
	Garlic powder	1/2 teaspoon
	Salt	1 teaspoon
Spicy Glaze	Chili paste	1 tablespoon
	Agave syrup	1/4 cup
	Ketchup	2 tablespoons
	Soy sauce	2 teaspoons
	Rice wine vinegar	1 tablespoon

Step-by-Step Instructions for Vegan Spicy Glazed Popcorn Broccoli

1. Prepare the Broccoli Coating

• In a bowl, combine the non-dairy milk, apple cider vinegar, and hot sauce. Let the mixture sit for a minute to create a buttermilk-like texture.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, panko bread crumbs, corn starch, baking soda, garlic powder, and salt.

2. Coat the Broccoli

• Dip each broccoli floret into the milk mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
• Dredge the floret in the flour mixture, pressing gently to coat it evenly.
• Place the coated broccoli florets on a lined baking sheet.

3. Bake the Broccoli

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Arrange the coated broccoli in a single layer on the baking sheet.
• Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning. Remove when golden and crispy.

4. Make the Spicy Glaze

• In a small saucepan, combine the chili paste, agave syrup, ketchup, soy sauce, and rice wine vinegar.
• Warm the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened (about 3–5 minutes). Remove from heat.

5. Toss and Serve

• Transfer the crispy baked broccoli to a large mixing bowl.
• Pour the warm spicy glaze over the broccoli and toss until evenly coated.
• Serve immediately with optional garnishes like sesame seeds or chopped green onions.

Pro Tips for Perfect Popcorn Broccoli

1. Use Fresh Broccoli

Fresh broccoli ensures a firm texture that holds up well during baking and glazing.

2. Don’t Skip the Panko

Panko bread crumbs add extra crunch and texture, making the broccoli irresistibly crispy.

3. Adjust the Spice

For a milder glaze, reduce the amount of chili paste or add a little extra agave syrup to balance the heat.

4. Flip for Even Baking

Flipping the broccoli halfway through baking helps achieve an evenly golden and crispy exterior.

5. Serve Immediately

For the best taste and texture, serve the broccoli hot right after tossing it in the glaze.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1 Cup)
Calories	150
Protein	4g
Fat	5g
Carbohydrates	22g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	320mg

Serving Suggestions

• As an Appetizer: Serve with a side of vegan ranch or sriracha mayo for dipping.
• Game Day Snack: Pair with other finger foods like veggie sticks or potato wedges.
• Side Dish: Complement your main course with this spicy and crispy broccoli for added flavor.
• Taco Filling: Use the glazed broccoli as a unique, plant-based filling for tacos.

FAQs About Vegan Spicy Glazed Popcorn Broccoli

1. Can I air fry the broccoli?

Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the coated broccoli for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

2. Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free flour and panko bread crumbs to make the recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

4. Can I use frozen broccoli?

While fresh broccoli is recommended, you can use frozen florets. Thaw them completely and pat dry before coating.

5. Is the glaze very spicy?

The glaze has a moderate heat level. Adjust the chili paste to suit your spice preference.

6. What other sauces can I try?

For variety, try a sesame ginger glaze, teriyaki sauce, or even a tangy BBQ glaze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegan Spicy Glazed Popcorn Broccoli transforms a humble vegetable into a show-stopping snack or side dish. The crispy coating combined with the sweet and spicy glaze creates a flavor explosion that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s an easy, healthy, and plant-based recipe that’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Call to Action

Ready to elevate your snacking game? Gather your ingredients and make Vegan Spicy Glazed Popcorn Broccoli today. It’s a bold, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

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