A creative, plant-based appetizer shaped like a classic Brazilian coxinha. This vegan version features a crispy crust filled with a savory broccoli mixture.

Healthy Vegan Broccoli Coxinha - Brazilian Drumstick Appetizer

Coxinha (little drumstick) is one of Brazil's most beloved savory snacks. This creative vegan version reimagines the classic with a gluten-free, plant-based dough filled with savory broccoli stuffing. Baked instead of fried, these healthier coxinhas maintain that iconic teardrop shape and crispy exterior while being dairy-free, egg-free, and packed with greens. Perfect for parties, snacks, or kids' lunchboxes, these broccoli coxinhas are delicious proof that traditional comfort foods can be reinvented without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Ingredients

  • Gluten-free coxinha fit dough
  • Broccoli stuffing
  • Rice flour to help shape the dough
  • Olive oil to help shape the dough
  • Amaranth flakes for rolling or quinoa or rolled oats

Steps

  • Step 1: Model the dough to put the stuffing you prefer, closing with a pout at the end

  • Step 2: Roll in amaranth flakes. Place in preheated medium oven for 30 minutes, or until golden

Tips for Perfect Vegan Coxinha

  • Keep Hands Oiled Rub olive oil on your hands before shaping the coxinhas. This prevents sticking and helps create that smooth, iconic drumstick shape.

  • Use Rice Flour for Sticky Dough If the dough is too sticky to handle, add rice flour 1 tablespoon at a time until workable. Don't overdo it - dough should be soft, not dry.

  • Crunchy Coating Variations Roll in amaranth flakes, quinoa flakes, rolled oats, or gluten-free breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, lightly toast the coating in a dry pan before rolling.

  • Bake Until Golden Bake at 180-200°C (350-400°F) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy. For a fried texture, spray with oil before baking.

Vegan Tips

  • 1: If you can't shape it by hand (with olive oil), add a cup of rice flour until it works

Vegan Coxinha Variations

Change up your filling:

  • 🍄 **Shiitake Coxinha:** Filling with sautéed shiitake mushrooms, onions, and herbs.

  • 🥔 **Jackfruit Coxinha:** Shredded young jackfruit cooked with tomatoes and spices for a 'chicken' texture.

  • 🥕 **Vegetable Medley Coxinha:** Mix of carrots, peas, corn, and hearts of palm.

  • 🧀 **Vegan Cheese Coxinha:** Add melted vegan cheese to any filling for a gooey center.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is coxinha?

Coxinha is a popular Brazilian street food shaped like a chicken drumstick, traditionally filled with shredded chicken and catupiry cheese, then breaded and deep-fried.

How to shape coxinha?

Form a ball with the dough, make an indentation, add filling, seal completely, then shape into a teardrop/drumstick shape with a pointed top.

Can I freeze these?

Yes! Freeze shaped, unbaked coxinhas on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to baking time.

Can I deep fry them?

Absolutely! Heat vegetable oil to 180°C and fry until golden brown. They're delicious baked or fried.

Nutrition Information (per coxinha)

Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 4g | Carbs: 18g | Fat: 3.5g | Fiber: 3g (varies based on dough and filling)