Mayak Eggs

Sweet and spicy, soy garlic marinated, jammy mayak eggs (마약계란) are a delicious Korean banchan to spice up your rice bowl. These soy marinated eggs are trending because they are dangerously addicting. Perfect for any occasion, they can elevate your meals or be enjoyed as a delightful snack on their own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and honey creates a rich flavor that enhances any dish.
• Versatile Side Dish: Enjoy them with rice, in salads, or as a topping for ramen — the possibilities are endless!
• Meal Prep Friendly: These marinated eggs last up to one week in the fridge, making them ideal for meal prep.
• Healthier Snack Option: High in protein and low in fat, mayak eggs make for a satisfying yet nutritious treat.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare mayak eggs, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will make the process smoother and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Spider strainer or slotted spoon
• Mixing bowl
• Airtight container

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium saucepan: This is crucial for boiling the eggs evenly to achieve the perfect soft-boiled texture.
• Spider strainer or slotted spoon: Helps safely lower and remove the eggs from boiling water without cracking them.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all marinade ingredients thoroughly before soaking the eggs.
• Airtight container: Keeps the marinated eggs fresh while allowing them to soak up all those delicious flavors.

Ingredients

To create these delectable mayak eggs, gather the following ingredients:

For the Eggs

• 6 eggs
• 2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoon white vinegar

For the Marinade

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 small yellow onion (diced about 1/4 cup)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 stalks scallions (minced)
• 1 Korean red pepper (sliced)
• 1 serrano (sliced)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

How to Make Mayak Eggs

Step 1: Soft Boil the Eggs

1. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil with salt and vinegar.
2. Using a spider strainer or slotted spoon, carefully lower the eggs into the water. Ensure that the water completely covers them.
3. Simmer room-temperature eggs on medium heat for 6 minutes over a gentle boil or 7 minutes if using cold eggs from the refrigerator.

Step 2: Chill the Eggs

1. Remove the eggs from boiling water and place them in an ice bath or cold water bath for about 10 minutes until cooled.
2. Gently peel each egg once cooled.

Step 3: Make the Marinade

1. In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, water, honey, diced onion, minced garlic, minced scallions, sliced Korean red pepper, sliced serrano, and toasted sesame seeds until well mixed.

Step 4: Marinate Overnight

1. Place peeled eggs in an airtight container.
2. Pour marinade over the eggs ensuring they are fully submerged.
3. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours but preferably overnight for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 5: Serve

Enjoy your mayak eggs with freshly cooked rice! Drizzle with some of the marinade and a splash of sesame oil for extra richness.

How to Serve Mayak Eggs

Mayak eggs are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will elevate your dining.

With Steamed Rice

• Enjoy mayak eggs served over a bowl of freshly steamed rice. The flavors of the marinade seep into the rice for a delicious combination.

As a Snack

• Mayak eggs make for an excellent snack on their own. Their sweet and spicy taste is sure to satisfy your cravings throughout the day.

In a Rice Bowl

• Create a flavorful rice bowl by adding mayak eggs along with vegetables, grilled chicken, or tofu. This makes for a nutritious and filling meal.

With Sautéed Greens

• Pair mayak eggs with sautéed greens, such as spinach or bok choy, for a healthy side that complements the richness of the eggs.

As Part of a Korean Meal

• Serve mayak eggs alongside other Korean dishes like kimchi or bulgogi for an authentic and delightful dining experience.

How to Perfect Mayak Eggs

Perfecting your mayak eggs can take your dish from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Choose fresh eggs: Fresh eggs yield the best texture and flavor. Look for eggs with a clean shell and check the expiration date.

• Control boiling time: For jammy yolks, boil the eggs for exactly 6-7 minutes. Adjust the time based on how runny you prefer your yolk.

• Chill properly: After boiling, chill the eggs in ice water for at least 10 minutes to stop cooking and make peeling easier.

• Marinate longer: For more intense flavors, marinate the eggs overnight. The longer they soak in the marinade, the tastier they become.

• Store correctly: Keep marinated mayak eggs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to one week without losing flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Mayak Eggs

To create a well-rounded meal with mayak eggs, consider these complementary side dishes that bring balance to your plate.

1. Kimchi: A classic Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables that adds spice and crunch.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious; it pairs well with soy flavors.
3. Carrot Salad: A refreshing mix of grated carrots dressed lightly with sesame oil provides sweetness.
4. Cucumber Pickles: These add a tangy crunch that contrasts nicely with soft mayak eggs.
5. Sautéed Mushrooms: Earthy mushrooms cooked in garlic complement the flavors of marinated eggs.
6. Rice Noodles: Lightly tossed with sesame oil and veggies, these noodles are a great base for adding protein like chicken or tofu.
7. Miso Soup: A light broth filled with tofu and seaweed enhances the dining experience while remaining comforting.
8. Asian Slaw: A crunchy salad made from cabbage and carrots dressed with soy sauce adds freshness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Mayak Eggs, be aware of common mistakes that can affect flavor and texture.

• Skipping the water bath – Not cooling the eggs in a water bath after boiling can lead to overcooked eggs. Always chill them for about 10 minutes to achieve that perfect jammy yolk.
• Using cold eggs directly – Starting with cold eggs can result in uneven cooking. Let your eggs sit at room temperature for a few minutes before boiling for consistent results.
• Not marinating long enough – Rushing the marination process can lead to bland flavors. For optimal taste, marinate your eggs overnight for full absorption of the soy garlic flavors.
• Overcrowding the container – Stacking too many eggs in one container can prevent even marination. Use a spacious airtight container where each egg is well-coated with the marinade.
• Ignoring ingredient measurements – Adjusting ingredients without caution may disrupt the flavor balance. Stick to the recipe quantities for consistent results.
• Forgetting to slice peppers – Whole peppers won’t infuse their heat into the marinade effectively. Be sure to slice them beforehand for maximum flavor impact.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Mayak Eggs in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mayak Eggs

• It’s not recommended to freeze Mayak Eggs, as freezing can alter their texture and flavor significantly.

Reheating Mayak Eggs

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place eggs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat on a microwave-safe plate for 30 seconds at a time until warm. Avoid overheating, which can cook the eggs further.
• Stovetop – Gently heat in a non-stick pan over low heat for about 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Mayak Eggs.

What are Mayak Eggs?

Mayak Eggs are Korean marinated soft-boiled eggs soaked in a flavorful soy garlic marinade that creates an addictively savory dish.

How do I achieve jammy yolks in my Mayak Eggs?

To get perfectly jammy yolks, boil your eggs for exactly 6-7 minutes depending on their temperature before transferring them to an ice bath.

Can I customize my Mayak Eggs?

Absolutely! You can adjust spices or add different toppings like chili flakes or sesame oil to personalize your Mayak Eggs.

How long do Mayak Eggs last?

Properly stored in an airtight container, Mayak Eggs will last up to one week in the refrigerator.

Can I use different types of soy sauce?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different varieties of soy sauce, such as low-sodium or tamari, depending on your dietary preferences.

Final Thoughts

Mayak Eggs are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a sweet-spicy kick that pairs beautifully with rice or salads. Their versatility allows you to customize them according to your taste preferences, making this recipe a must-try!