Description
Korean Marinated Eggs, also known as Mayak Eggs, are soft-boiled eggs soaked in a flavorful marinade of soy sauce, garlic, chili, and sesame, resulting in a savory, spicy, and slightly sweet treat perfect as a snack or accompaniment to rice, salads, or toast.
Ingredients
Eggs
- 4 eggs
Marinade
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 tbsp gochugaru or red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 3-4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 green chili, sliced
- 2 spring onions, chopped
- 3-4 tbsp finely chopped onion
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (optional)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- Boil the eggs: Boil 4 eggs for exactly 7 minutes to achieve a slightly soft center. Immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath to halt the cooking process, then peel them carefully and set aside.
- Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine 1/3 cup soy sauce, 1/3 cup water, 1 tbsp gochugaru or red chili flakes, 3-4 finely chopped garlic cloves, sliced green chili, 2 chopped spring onions, 3-4 tbsp finely chopped onion, 1 tbsp rice vinegar (optional), 1 tbsp honey, and 1 tbsp sesame seeds. Mix thoroughly to create a balanced savory, spicy, and slightly sweet marinade.
- Marinate the eggs: Place the peeled eggs into the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. If the eggs do not submerge completely, transfer them to a shallow container that can hold the marinade fully around the eggs. Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours to allow flavors to infuse deeply into the eggs.
- Serve and store: After marination, serve the eggs as a standalone snack, with rice, in salads, or on toast. The marinated eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for 3–4 days and enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes to control the spiciness according to your preference.
- Rice vinegar can be omitted if unavailable; it adds a subtle tang to the marinade.
- Use fresh eggs for best results, and avoid overcooking to retain the soft yolk texture.
- Marinating for 24 hours is essential for the flavors to fully penetrate the eggs.
- Keep the marinated eggs refrigerated if not consumed immediately, for up to 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Korean