What is gochujang and how spicy is it?

Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste with a balance of heat, sweetness, and umami. It adds depth without overwhelming spice.

Can I substitute the salmon with another protein?

Yes you can use tofu chicken thighs or shrimp. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure proper doneness.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Assemble components ahead and store separately. Reheat before serving and top with fresh scallions and sesame seeds.

What can I use instead of kimchi?

Try pickled vegetables or a simple slaw with vinegar for acidity if you do not have kimchi on hand.

Do I need to use brown rice?

No you can substitute with jasmine rice quinoa or cauliflower rice depending on dietary needs and preferences.

Spicy Roasted Salmon with Broccoli and Rice

A bowl of food containing broccoli, rice, and salmon. | ioanacooks.com

This vibrant bowl brings together spicy roasted salmon and crispy broccoli over warm brown rice for a quick weeknight meal that satisfies. The gochujang glaze caramelizes beautifully while store-bought kimchi adds just enough zing to keep every bite exciting.

I first tested this recipe on a busy Monday and by Wednesday it had already earned a spot on our rotation. The combination is just so clean and craveable.

Ingredients

Skinless salmon fillets: choose evenly sized portions for uniform cooking
Gochujang: adds bold fermented spice and pairs well with honey
Mayonnaise: provides fat to carry the glaze and promote browning
Honey: brings caramelization and balances the chili paste
Broccoli florets: go crisp tender when roasted and soak up extra sauce
Extra virgin olive oil: helps the vegetables roast evenly
Cooked brown rice: choose short grain for better texture and fiber
Kimchi: adds fermented brightness and crunch
Scallions: offer freshness and mild onion flavor
Toasted sesame seeds: add nutty contrast and aroma
Lime wedges: optional but highly recommended to balance richness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil to simplify cleanup
Season and Glaze the Salmon:: Place the salmon fillets skin side down on one half of the baking sheet Cook them evenly with one quarter teaspoon of salt and one eighth teaspoon of pepper In a small bowl combine mayonnaise gochujang and honey then whisk until smooth Brush the glaze generously over the tops and sides of the fillets
Prepare the Broccoli:: Toss broccoli florets with olive oil the remaining salt and pepper until well coated Spread them on the other side of the baking sheet opposite the salmon
Roast to Perfection:: Place the tray in the oven and roast for fourteen to sixteen minutes Check the salmon with an instant read thermometer at the thickest part It should register one hundred forty five degrees Fahrenheit and flake easily with a fork
Assemble the Bowls:: Spoon one half cup of hot cooked rice into each bowl Top with a salmon fillet about one third cup of roasted broccoli and one quarter cup of kimchi Finish with sliced scallions and sesame seeds Serve with lime wedges if desired

A plate of food with broccoli and salmon. | ioanacooks.com

I always look forward to adding kimchi here because it brings just the right level of funk and crunch. My husband once asked if I had made it from scratch it really elevates the whole experience.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in separate airtight containers for up to three days Keep the rice and salmon apart to maintain their texture Reheat gently in the microwave or oven with a splash of water to refresh the rice

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap salmon with firm tofu or roasted tempeh for a vegetarian version White rice or quinoa can stand in for brown rice If gochujang is unavailable try sriracha mixed with a bit of soy sauce and tomato paste

A plate of food with rice, broccoli, and salmon. | ioanacooks.com

Serving Suggestions

Serve with quick pickled cucumbers or shredded carrots for extra crunch A miso soup or light green salad would round out the meal beautifully You can double the batch and make into meal prep boxes for busy weeks

Cultural Context

Gochujang is a fermented Korean chili paste often used in marinades and stews Kimchi a Korean staple brings both flavor and probiotic benefits This dish bridges Korean pantry staples with Western style plating and preparation

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What is gochujang and how spicy is it?: Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste with a balance of heat, sweetness, and umami. It adds depth without overwhelming spice.
→ Can I substitute the salmon with another protein?: Yes you can use tofu chicken thighs or shrimp. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure proper doneness.
→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?: Absolutely. Assemble components ahead and store separately. Reheat before serving and top with fresh scallions and sesame seeds.
→ What can I use instead of kimchi?: Try pickled vegetables or a simple slaw with vinegar for acidity if you do not have kimchi on hand.
→ Do I need to use brown rice?: No you can substitute with jasmine rice quinoa or cauliflower rice depending on dietary needs and preferences.

Roasted Salmon Broccoli Bowls