Korean Marinated Eggs Recipe (Mayak Gyeran)

Korean marinated eggs (also called Mayak Gyeran) are soft-boiled eggs that are marinated in a savory-sweet soy sauce with aromatics and chili for the perfect umami bite. Enjoy them over warm rice or as a snack.

Why This Recipe Works

Flavor Packed: The marinade for these Korean marinated eggs has a perfectly well-rounded flavor profile that fully penetrates the eggs! The mixture of aromatic vegetables like onion, garlic, and chilies releases their flavor slowly into the marinade, adding loads of flavor into these soft boiled eggs. 

Easy Protein Addition: Each marinated egg provides high-quality protein while being low in calories. The soft-boiled preparation method ensures the proteins remain easily digestible while the jammy yolk adds a rich, creamy texture. These eggs can effortlessly transform a simple bowl of rice or noodles into a satisfying, high protein meal!

Easy to Make: Despite their complex flavor, mayak gyeran requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. There’s no special equipment needed, and the marinade can be prepared while the eggs cook. Plus, these eggs can be made in advance and stored for several days, making meal prep convenient!

What are Mayak Gyeran?

Mayak gyeran are Korean marinated eggs, where “mayak” means drug and “gyeran” means eggs. They are often referred to as Korean drug eggs, which is a playful nickname that refers to their addictively delicious taste. 

First, the eggs are first soft-boiled until they achieve a perfectly jammy yolk, then marinated in a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, aromatics, and seasonings. The result is a versatile dish with a perfect balance of salty, sweet, and umami flavors!

Supplies Needed

• Large pot
• Slotted spoon
• Bowl for ice bath
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Airtight container 
• Small bowl

Ingredients

• Eggs: Use fresh eggs and make sure to transfer them into an ice bath to make them easier to peel!
• Soy Sauce: Use a high quality soy sauce for a balanced salt content and fermented depth. Traditional, Korean soy sauce is used to make Korean marinated eggs, but it’s okay to use any soy sauce you have on hand.
• Water: You need just a little bit of water to dilute the marinade a bit!
• Mirin: This sweet rice wine adds complexity and helps tenderize the eggs!
• Honey: For a little bit of sweetness and to help the marinade cling to the eggs.
• Sesame Oil: For a hint of nutty flavor!
• Aromatics: You will need garlic, onion, and green onions to infuse a savory flavor into the marinade.
• Red Chili & Green Chili: Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. Korean red chilies (gochu) are traditional, but any fresh chilies work!
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: For an added nutty flavor and slight crunch.

Cooking Instructions

Soft Boiling the Eggs

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Add Eggs: Gently lower the eggs into the water and cook for 6 minutes and 30 seconds for a soft, jammy yolk.
3. Transfer to Ice Bath: Immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath and let them cool for at least 5 minutes.
4. Peel: Carefully peel each egg and set them aside.

Marinating

1. Make Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, water, mirin, sugar, honey, and sesame oil. Add minced garlic, diced onion, green onions, chili peppers, and toasted sesame seeds.
2. Marinate the Eggs: Place the peeled eggs in a container or a resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the eggs, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, for maximum flavor.
3. Enjoy: Enjoy the Korean marinated eggs over a bowl of warm rice, drizzled with extra marinade. Garnish with extra green onion and sesame seeds if desired.

Storing And Serving

Store the eggs, fully submerged in the marinade, in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for 3-4 days, but the yolks will continue to firm up slightly over time. The marinade can be reused for a second batch of eggs within the same week, though it may need straining and refreshing with a splash of soy sauce!

Korean mayak eggs are amazing when served over a bowl of hot rice or cauliflower rice and your choice of steamed vegetable. Cut the eggs in half to reveal the jammy yolk, and top with a drizzle of extra marinade and some garlic chili oil! They also make excellent additions to ramen, bibimbap, cauliflower fried rice, or as a protein-rich snack on their own!

More Recipes To Try

• Smoked Hard Boiled Eggs
• Chilaquiles Verdes con Huevos
• Shishito Peppers on the Grill
• Smoked Deviled Eggs
• Cold Soba Noodle Salad