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Mayak Gyeran: Korean Marinated Eggs (The Addictive Snack)

Two halves of soft-boiled marinated eggs with vibrant orange yolks, topped with scallions and sesame seeds.

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Make Korean Marinated Eggs, or Mayak Gyeran, for a protein-packed snack or flavorful topping. These soft-boiled eggs feature a jammy yolk steeped in a savory, umami-rich soy sauce marinade.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Gently lower the eggs into the boiling water using a slotted spoon.
  2. Boil the eggs for exactly 6 minutes and 30 seconds for a jammy yolk.
  3. Immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Let them cool completely, about 10 minutes.
  4. Peel the cooled eggs carefully.
  5. In a medium, non-reactive container (like a glass jar or plastic container), whisk together the soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, chopped onion, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the sugar dissolves.
  6. Gently place the peeled eggs into the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged.
  7. Cover the container and refrigerate. Marinate the eggs for a minimum of 6 hours, but 12 to 24 hours yields the best flavor penetration.
  8. When serving, remove the eggs from the marinade. Slice in half and garnish with sliced green onion and sesame seeds.

Notes

  • For the perfect jammy yolk, timing the boil is key. If you prefer a firmer yolk, boil for 7 minutes.
  • You can reuse the leftover marinade once to flavor rice or use it as a light dressing for vegetables.
  • These are excellent for meal prep and keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutrition