Mayak Eggs (Korean Marinated Eggs)

Name: Mayak Eggs (Korean Marinated Eggs)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup water; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chopped green onions; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 4 large eggs; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Mayak Eggs, or Korean Marinated Eggs, are a delightful fusion of flavors that perfectly balance savory, sweet, and umami. These eggs are not only simple to prepare but also make a perfect snack or side dish.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-23T17:57:34.096Z

Mayak Eggs have become a popular dish in Korean cuisine, known for their simplicity and rich flavor. The term 'mayak' translates to 'narcotic' in Korean, highlighting how addictive these deliciously marinated eggs can be!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Savory soy sauce combined with a touch of sweetness
Perfectly cooked eggs with a silky yolk
Versatile snack that pairs well with rice or can be enjoyed on their own

      

The Art of Perfectly Boiled Eggs

Achieving the perfect boiled egg is an essential skill for any home cook, and it's particularly important for Mayak Eggs. Start by using fresh, large eggs for the best results. When boiling, the key is to maintain a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil to prevent cracking. Cooking the eggs for exactly five minutes yields a soft, creamy yolk that balances beautifully with the savory marinade. If you prefer a firmer yolk, extend the cooking time by a minute or two, but be mindful that this can change the texture.

After boiling, immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath. This stops the cooking process and makes peeling significantly easier. Allow them to cool for at least five minutes; this will help prevent the yolk from developing a greenish hue, which occurs when eggs are overcooked. The perfect boiled egg is not only visually appealing but also essential for the delightful taste of Mayak Eggs.

Flavor Enhancements

While the marinade for Mayak Eggs is delicious on its own, there are countless ways to enhance the flavor profile. Consider adding a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy note or incorporating a few slices of fresh ginger for an aromatic touch. If you enjoy heat, a dash of Korean gochugaru can elevate the spice level while adding a vibrant color to the marinade.

You can also experiment with different types of soy sauce. Dark soy sauce will give your marinade a richer color and flavor, while light soy sauce may offer a more delicate taste. The combination of flavors is highly customizable, allowing you to create a version of Mayak Eggs that suits your palate perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

Mayak Eggs make for an incredibly versatile snack or side dish. You can serve them as part of a bento box alongside steamed rice and vegetables, or enjoy them as a standalone treat. Their rich, savory flavor pairs excellently with a bowl of hot rice, making it a comforting meal option. For a more elaborate presentation, consider serving them on a bed of sautéed greens or with pickled vegetables for added crunch and acidity.

For entertaining, Mayak Eggs can be a fabulous appetizer. Arrange them on a platter, garnished with additional green onions and sesame seeds, for a visually appealing dish that will impress your guests. Regardless of how you choose to enjoy them, these marinated eggs are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

For the Marinade

1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chopped green onions
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Eggs

4 large eggs
Sesame seeds for garnish

Enjoy these marinated eggs as a snack or as a side dish with your meals!

Steps

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, green onions, and red pepper flakes until the sugar dissolves.

Cook the Eggs

Bring a pot of water to a boil. Gently add the eggs and boil for 5 minutes. Remove the eggs and place them in an ice bath to cool.

Marinate the Eggs

Peel the cooled eggs and place them in a container. Pour the marinade over the eggs, ensuring they are fully submerged. Seal the container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

Serve

Once marinated, slice the eggs in half, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and enjoy!

These marinated eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Storage Tips

Proper storage of Mayak Eggs is crucial for maintaining their flavor and texture. After marinating, keep the eggs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to one week, but for optimal taste, try to consume them within three to four days. The longer they sit in the marinade, the more flavorful they become, but they can also lose their delicate texture if left too long.

If you've made a large batch and want to store them for extended periods, consider freezing the eggs. However, freezing may alter their texture, so it's best to enjoy them fresh or within a week of marinating. If you do freeze them, thaw in the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Benefits

Mayak Eggs are not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. They also contain important vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin D, B vitamins, and selenium, which support overall health and immunity.

Additionally, the marinade ingredients, such as garlic and sesame oil, offer their own health benefits. Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and may help boost heart health, while sesame oil provides healthy fats that are beneficial for skin and brain health. Enjoying Mayak Eggs as part of a balanced diet can contribute to your overall well-being.

Cultural Significance

Mayak Eggs are a beloved snack in Korean cuisine, often enjoyed as a side dish or appetizer. The name 'Mayak' translates to 'narcotic' in Korean, a playful reference to how addictive these marinated eggs can be. They are commonly found in Korean markets and restaurants, highlighting their popularity in the culture.

This dish embodies the essence of Korean cooking, where bold flavors and simple ingredients come together to create something extraordinary. Making Mayak Eggs at home allows you to experience a piece of Korean culinary tradition while customizing the flavors to your liking. It's a wonderful way to explore and appreciate the rich diversity of global cuisines right in your kitchen.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use soft-boiled eggs instead?

Yes, soft-boiled eggs can be used for a creamier texture.

→ How long can I store marinated eggs?

Marinated eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I adjust the level of spiciness?

Absolutely! You can add more or less red pepper flakes according to your preference.

→ What can I serve with Mayak Eggs?

They pair well with rice, salads, or can be enjoyed as a standalone snack.