How to Make Mayak Eggs: The Addictive Korean Marinated Eggs Recipe You’ll Love

Mayak eggs, also known as “drug eggs” in Korean (because they’re so delicious and addictive), are marinated eggs that are savory, slightly sweet, and packed with umami. A popular Korean side dish, mayak eggs are incredibly easy to make and perfect for enjoying over rice, noodles, or even on their own. In this guide, we’ll walk you through an authentic mayak egg recipe and share helpful tips for getting that perfect marinated flavor. Once you try these, they’re bound to become a staple in your kitchen!

Simple Mayak Eggs Recipe

Ingredients:

• 6 large eggs
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tablespoons mirin (or rice vinegar)
• 2 tablespoons honey (or sugar)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 chili pepper (optional, for extra spice)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Soft-Boil the Eggs: Bring a pot of water to a boil and gently lower the eggs in with a spoon. Cook the eggs for 6 to 7 minutes for a soft, jammy yolk. For firmer yolks, cook for an additional 1–2 minutes. Once done, transfer the eggs to an ice bath to stop the cooking, and let them cool completely.
2. Peel the Eggs: Carefully peel the eggs and set them aside. Be gentle to avoid breaking the delicate whites.
3. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, water, mirin, honey, minced garlic, chopped green onions, and sliced chili pepper if desired. Mix well.
4. Marinate the Eggs: Place the peeled eggs in a container and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the eggs are fully submerged, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight for best flavor).
5. Serve: After marinating, serve the mayak eggs over rice, garnish with sesame seeds, and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Mayak Eggs

1. Cook the Eggs to Your Preferred Doneness: Six to seven minutes will give you a soft-boiled egg with a creamy yolk, while eight to nine minutes will yield a firmer yolk. Adjust according to your preference.
2. Let the Eggs Marinate Overnight: While a few hours are sufficient, marinating the eggs overnight allows them to absorb more flavor.
3. Add Extra Ingredients for Variation: For added complexity, you can include a splash of sesame oil in the marinade or add other aromatics like ginger slices.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long can I store mayak eggs?
Mayak eggs can be stored in the marinade in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they become.

2. Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, honey adds a mild sweetness, but you can substitute it with sugar, maple syrup, or even agave syrup.

3. What can I serve with mayak eggs?
These eggs are delicious on their own or served over steamed rice, noodles, or in salads. They’re a great addition to ramen or a rice bowl for extra flavor.

4. Can I make mayak eggs spicy?
Absolutely! Add sliced chili peppers or a dash of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) to the marinade for extra heat.

5. Do I need to use mirin?
If you don’t have mirin, rice vinegar can be used as a substitute. Mirin adds a slight sweetness, while rice vinegar provides a tangier flavor.

Flavor Variations for Mayak Eggs

1. Sesame-Ginger Mayak Eggs: Add a few slices of fresh ginger and a dash of sesame oil to the marinade for an earthy, nutty flavor.
2. Spicy Mayak Eggs: Include gochugaru or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
3. Herbed Mayak Eggs: Try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Conclusion

Mayak eggs are a wonderful Korean side dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With a balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors, these marinated eggs are addictive and versatile. Whether enjoyed with rice, as a topping, or on their own, mayak eggs are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Try this recipe, and discover why these eggs are called “addictive”!