In Korean, "Mayak" translates to"addictive," aptly characterizing these flavorful eggs that have gained fame for their irresistible and addictive taste. This Mayak egg recipe is so easy and is perfect with white rice!
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Korean Soy Marinated Eggs (Mayak Gyeran) are a truly addictive dish that perfectly balances savory, sweet, and aromatic flavors.
This Korean delicacy features eggs marinated in a flavorful mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and other spices, making it impossible to resist.
After trying this recipe, I found myself devouring half of the batch in one go! Whether you're a fan of Korean cuisine or just looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish, these marinated eggs are sure to become a favorite.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: Each egg is marinated to perfection, absorbing rich, savory flavors that tantalize your taste buds.
- Easy to Peel: A touch of vinegar in the boiling water ensures hassle-free peeling, saving you time and effort.
- Protein-Packed: Cold eggs provide a protein-rich burst, making them a nutritious and satisfying addition to any meal.
- Perfect Balance: The marinade offers a harmonious blend of umami, sweetness, and nuttiness, creating an irresistible flavor profile.
- Versatile Use: Enjoy these eggs as a snack, on rice, in ramen, or as a salad topping—endless possibilities for deliciousness.
- Simple Preparation: With straightforward ingredients and steps, this recipe is easy to follow, even for beginners.
- Aromatic Delight: Garlic and sesame oil infuse the eggs with a warm, inviting aroma, enhancing the overall eating experience.
- Customizable Heat: Add chili for a spicy kick or keep it mild—the choice is yours for a personalized touch.
Ingredients
- Cold Eggs: The highlight of our dish! Cold eggs absorb the marinade flavors while keeping their delicate texture. They provide a protein-rich burst with every bite.
- Vinegar: Add a tablespoon to boiling water for easy peeling. This trick ensures beautifully peeled eggs without sticking.
- Soy Sauce: The umami backbone of our marinade. It adds rich, savory depth and perfectly complements the other ingredients.
- Sweet Soy Sauce: Adds a touch of caramelized sweetness, enhancing the savory-sweet balance of the eggs.
- Water: Forms the base of our marinade, allowing the flavors to infuse into the eggs.
- Sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness to balance the savory flavors, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Garlic: Adds an aromatic punch. Minced garlic infuses the eggs with a warm, savory note.
- Green Onion: Provides a burst of freshness and a pop of color.
- Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty richness, enhancing the marinade's depth.
- Sesame Seeds: Nutty and aromatic, they add a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
- Chili (Optional): For a spicy kick, fresh chili adds bold heat to the savory-sweet profile.
How to Make Mayak Eggs
- Prepare the 7 Minute Egg:
- Bring the water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of vinegar to the water. This helps in easy peeling.
- Very gently place the eggs in a pot then reduce the heat and simmer for exactly 7 minutes for that perfect egg!
- If your egg is at room temperature, boil it only for 6 minutes.
- Once cooked, transfer the eggs to an ice bath to cool. Peel the eggs carefully.
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a bowl or any container, combine soy sauce, sweet soy sauce, water, sugar, minced garlic, and chopped green onions, and chili.
- Mix until combined.
- Marinate the Eggs:
- Place the peeled eggs in a bowl or container.
- Pour the marinade over the eggs, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Let the eggs marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they will be.
- Serve:
- Before serving, drizzle sesame oil over the eggs and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Serve the Mayak Eggs!
Side Dish for Mayak Eggs
- Steamed Rice: The perfect neutral base to soak up the flavorful marinade of the eggs.
- Kimchi: Adds a tangy, spicy contrast that complements the savory eggs.
- Cucumber Salad: Offers a refreshing and slightly crunchy texture, balancing the richness of the eggs.
- Pickled Vegetables: Light and crisp pickles provide a zesty contrast to the creamy eggs.
- Miso Soup: A warm, umami-rich soup pairs wonderfully with the marinated eggs.
- Stir-Fried Spinach: Lightly seasoned spinach adds a healthy, vibrant green to your meal.
- Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado enhances the richness of the eggs and adds healthy fats.
- Japanese Potato Salad: A slightly sweet and creamy side that pairs well with the savory eggs.
- Green Salad: Tender green leaves to complement the eggs' flavor.
Recipe FAQs
Mayak Eggs are often enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is optional and based on personal preference. If you choose to reheat, do so gently to avoid overcooking and altering the texture.
Mayak Eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they become. If you plan to keep them for an extended period, make sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and prevent them from absorbing other odors in the fridge. Always use your judgment and check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.
Mayak eggs can be a nutritious addition to your diet as they provide high-quality protein from eggs and essential nutrients. However, the soy sauce's sodium content and sugar in the marinade should be considered, especially for individuals monitoring their intake of these components. Enjoying Mayak eggs in moderation allows you to savor their delicious flavor while maintaining a balanced approach to nutrition. If you have specific dietary concerns, consulting with a healthcare professional or nutritionist is recommended.
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Korean Soy Marinated Eggs (Mayak Gyeran)
Equipment
- 1 small pot
- 1 glass jar or container
Ingredients
- 6 eggs cold, large
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
Marinade
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 stalks green onion chopped
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 2 red/ green chili (optional)
Instructions
Boil the Eggs
- Bring the water to a boil.
- Very gently place the eggs in a pot then reduce the heat and simmer for exactly 7 minutes for that perfect egg! If your egg is at room temperature, boil it only for 6 minutes.
- Once cooked, transfer the eggs to an ice bath to cool.
- Peel the eggs carefully.
Prepare the Marinade
- In a bowl or any container, combine soy sauce, sweet soy sauce, water, sugar, minced garlic, and chopped green onions, and chili.
- Mix until combined.
Marinate the Eggs
- Place the peeled eggs in a bowl or container.
- Pour the marinade over the eggs, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Let the eggs marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they will be.
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Notes
- Sugar - You can substitute it with honey or any sweetener of your choice.
- Soy Sauce - You can use dark or light soy sauce.
