Mayak Eggs (Korean Soy Marinated Eggs)
If you’ve never experienced the addictive magic of Mayak Eggs (Korean Soy Marinated Eggs), you’re in for a treat. These soft-boiled eggs are marinated in a savory, slightly sweet soy-based sauce infused with garlic, green onions, sesame oil, and chili. The result? Jammy marinated eggs so flavorful they’re often called “addictive eggs.”
The name “mayak” actually means “drug” in Korean slang — referring to how irresistibly good these eggs are. Traditionally served over warm rice, they soak up the umami-rich marinade and transform into a deeply satisfying meal or side dish.
Inspired by the Korean banchan known as Mayak Gyeran, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor into your home kitchen with surprisingly simple ingredients.
Let’s explore how to make these Korean soy marinated eggs perfectly every time.
What Are Mayak Eggs?
Mayak eggs are soft-boiled eggs marinated in a soy-based mixture. Unlike traditional hard-boiled eggs, these are cooked until the yolk is creamy and slightly runny — often referred to as “jammy.”
They’re typically:
- Served as a side dish (banchan)
- Enjoyed over rice
- Added to noodle bowls
- Eaten as a protein-rich snack
The marinade penetrates the egg whites while gently seasoning the yolk, creating a bold, savory bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soy sauce eggs recipe is:
- Easy to prepare
- Budget-friendly
- High in protein
- Meal-prep friendly
- Deeply flavorful
With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create Korean marinated eggs that taste like they came from a specialty restaurant.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 small red chili, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Bring Water to a Boil
Fill a saucepan with enough water to cover the eggs. Bring to a gentle boil. - Cook the Eggs
Carefully lower eggs into boiling water. Cook for 6–7 minutes for jammy yolks. - Ice Bath Immediately
Transfer eggs to an ice bath and let cool for at least 5 minutes to stop cooking. - Peel Carefully
Gently crack and peel eggs under running water to avoid tearing the whites. - Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, water, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, green onions, chili, and sesame seeds. - Marinate the Eggs
Place peeled eggs in a shallow container and pour marinade over them, ensuring they are submerged. - Refrigerate
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. - Serve
Slice in half and spoon extra marinade on top before serving.
Mayak Eggs (Korean Soy Marinated Eggs)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil eggs for 6-7 minutes.
- Transfer to ice bath and cool.
- Peel eggs carefully.
- Mix marinade ingredients.
- Submerge eggs in marinade.
- Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Slice and serve with extra marinade.
Notes
The Perfect Jammy Texture
The key to incredible mayak eggs is timing. Cooking for 6–7 minutes results in:
- Fully set whites
- Thick, creamy yolks
- Rich golden centers
If you prefer firmer yolks, cook for 8–9 minutes.
Flavor Breakdown
These Korean soy marinated eggs offer:
- Salty depth from soy sauce
- Sweet balance from sugar
- Aromatic warmth from garlic
- Nutty finish from sesame oil
- Gentle heat from chili
The marinade seeps into the whites while lightly coating the yolk, creating an umami-packed bite.
How to Serve Mayak Eggs
Mayak eggs are incredibly versatile:
Over Steamed Rice
Place a halved egg over warm rice and drizzle marinade on top.
With Noodles
Add to ramen or cold noodle bowls for extra protein.
As a Snack
Enjoy chilled straight from the fridge.
In Lunchboxes
They hold up beautifully for packed lunches.
Expert Tips for Success
Use Room Temperature Eggs
This reduces cracking during boiling.
Don’t Skip the Ice Bath
It stops cooking and prevents greenish yolks.
Fully Submerge Eggs
Flip halfway through marinating if needed.
Marinate Overnight
Flavor intensifies with time.
Storage Tips
- Store in marinade for up to 3 days.
- Keep refrigerated in airtight container.
- Consume within 72 hours for best texture.
Nutritional Benefits
Eggs are:
- High in complete protein
- Rich in vitamin B12
- A source of healthy fats
- Filling and satisfying
This soy sauce eggs recipe provides a protein-packed option with bold flavor.
Delicious Variations
Spicier Version
Add extra sliced chili or a dash of chili oil.
Sweeter Profile
Increase sugar slightly.
Citrus Twist
Add a splash of rice vinegar for brightness.
Garlic Lovers
Double the garlic for extra punch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reuse the marinade?
It’s not recommended for food safety reasons.
Can I use low-sodium soy sauce?
Yes, adjust seasoning to taste.
Can I make them fully hard-boiled?
Absolutely — increase cook time to 9–10 minutes.
Why These Jammy Marinated Eggs Are So Popular
Mayak eggs have gained popularity worldwide for good reason. They’re:
- Simple
- Flavorful
- Comforting
- Protein-rich
- Visually stunning
The combination of silky yolk and savory marinade makes them incredibly satisfying.
Once you try these Korean marinated eggs, they may become a staple in your weekly meal prep.
