Korean marinated eggs, also known as Mayak Gyeran (which translates to “drug eggs” because they’re so addictive), are soft-boiled eggs soaked in a flavorful soy-based marinade. These eggs are packed with umami, slightly sweet, garlicky, and have a hint of spice. They’re perfect as a snack, a rice topper, or even a side dish for your favorite Korean meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Packed with bold, savory-sweet flavors
- Perfect for meal prep—flavors deepen over time
- Delicious on rice, noodles, or as a snack
Ingredients
A handful of pantry staples come together for this flavorful dish:
- Eggs, soft-boiled for a creamy center
- Soy sauce for a rich, salty base
- Water to balance the marinade
- Honey or sugar for a touch of sweetness
- Garlic and green onions for extra depth
- Sesame seeds and chili flakes for flavor and heat
You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements below.
Soft-Boil the Eggs
Bring a pot of water to a boil and gently lower in the eggs. Cook for 6–7 minutes for a jammy yolk. Transfer immediately to an ice bath and let them cool before peeling.
Make the Marinade
In a bowl, mix soy sauce, water, honey, minced garlic, chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and chili flakes. Stir well to combine.
Marinate the Eggs
Place the peeled eggs in a container and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the eggs are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, but overnight is best for deeper flavor.
Serve and Enjoy
Slice the eggs in half and serve over warm rice, noodles, or enjoy them on their own. Drizzle a little marinade over for extra flavor.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use room-temperature eggs to prevent cracking in hot water
- Shake the pot gently while boiling to center the yolks
- If you want a firmer yolk, boil for 8–9 minutes instead
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Add thinly sliced chili peppers for extra heat
- Swap honey for brown sugar or maple syrup for a different sweetness
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option
- Try adding a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy kick
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
These eggs pair well with:
- Steamed rice with a drizzle of sesame oil
- Instant ramen for an easy flavor boost
- Korean BBQ as a side dish
- Cold soba noodles for a refreshing meal
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store the marinated eggs in the fridge for up to 4 days. The longer they sit, the stronger the flavor becomes.
These eggs are best served cold or at room temperature—no need to reheat.
FAQs
Can I use hard-boiled eggs instead?
Yes, but soft-boiled eggs soak up the marinade better and have a more luxurious texture.
How long should I marinate them?
At least 6 hours, but overnight gives the best flavor.
Can I reuse the marinade?
Yes! Strain it and use it for another batch or as a seasoning for rice and stir-fries.
Are these eggs spicy?
They have a mild heat from the chili flakes, but you can adjust the spice level to your liking.
Conclusion
Korean marinated eggs are one of those simple recipes that pack a huge flavor punch. Whether you’re making them for meal prep, a quick snack, or to elevate your rice bowl, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Try them once, and you’ll always want a batch in your fridge!
Print
Savory Korean-Style Marinated Eggs: A Flavorful Umami Explosion
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes (for boiling eggs)
- Total Time: 4 hours (including marinating time)
- Yield: 5 servings (adjusted to 6 servings) 1x
- Category: Snack, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop, Refrigerator
- Cuisine: Korean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Korean Marinated Eggs are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish, perfect for topping rice, noodles, or enjoying on their own as a snack. The soft-boiled eggs are marinated in a savory, slightly sweet, and tangy soy-based sauce, giving them a rich umami flavor. This is a must-try recipe for fans of Korean cuisine!
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
- 1 stalk green onion, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Boil the Eggs:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Carefully add the eggs and cook for 7-8 minutes for soft-boiled eggs, or longer for firmer yolks.
- Once done, remove the eggs from the pot and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to cool. Peel the eggs once they are cool enough to handle.
Prepare the Marinade:
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, honey (or sugar), sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
Marinate the Eggs:
- Place the peeled eggs in a small container or zip-lock bag. Pour the marinade over the eggs, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Seal the container or bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
Serve:
- Once the eggs are fully marinated, slice them in half and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired. Serve them on top of rice, noodles, or enjoy them as a snack.
Notes
- Marinate the eggs for a longer period (up to 24 hours) for a stronger flavor.
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey or sugar.
- This recipe is great for meal prep, as marinated eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 egg
- Calories: 70 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 270 mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 175 mg
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