Sweet Chili Roasted Broccoli

Ever had P.F. Chang's Spicy Green Bean appetizer?  If you haven't, you should.  Or you can just make this broccoli and not go through the trouble of getting off the couch, changing out of your sweatpants, and driving to your local P.F. Changs.  Wait, you're not wearing sweatpants, you say?  Well, the kitchen is still closer than P.F. Changs.  This broccoli has all the same delicious flavors of their green beans; the sweetness balances impeccably with the salty spiciness of the chili paste.  This broccoli makes an excellent side, or if you're not a carnivore like me, a healthy serving of this deliciousness over brown rice makes an incredibly satisfying meal.  Now, how do I say "bon apétite" in Chinese?

 

• 1 lb broccoli florets
• 2 Tbs agave or honey
• 2 tsp roasted red chili paste (I use Thai Kitchen)
• 2 tsp soy sauce
• 2 tsp sesame oil
• 2 Tbs olive oil
• Pinch crushed red pepper, or more to taste

1. Heat oven to 425°F.
2. In a microwave safe container, combine agave, chili paste, and soy sauce.  Microwave for 10-15 seconds, and stir to incorporate chili paste.  Add sesame and olive oil.  Toss broccoli in sauce, and spread on a cookie sheet.
3. Bake 8-10 minutes, or until broccoli reaches desired tenderness.

Yields 4 servings.