Name: Fried Egg with Ketchup
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 egg; 1 tablespoon cooking oil; 1 tablespoon ketchup; Pinch of salt; Pinch of black pepper; Optional: steamed rice for serving

Why You’ll Love Fried Egg with Ketchup Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy and comes together in about 10–15 minutes using basic ingredients. It delivers a unique balance of sweet ketchup, savory soy sauce, and rich eggs, creating a surprisingly addictive flavor. It’s also versatile—you can enjoy it over rice, on toast, or as a quick standalone meal. Plus, everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup simple.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

vegetable or canola oil
1/4 whole onion
1 stalk scallions
2 eggs
2 tablespoons ketchup
1/2 tablespoon soy sauce
1/2 tablespoon garlic (minced)
1/4 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
1/4 cup water
jalapeño peppers or chili oil (optional)
salt and pepper to taste
sesame oil and sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

Chop the onion and scallions into small pieces.
Heat oil in a pan over high heat and sauté the onion and half of the scallions until fragrant.
Crack the eggs directly onto the sautéed aromatics and let them cook partially.
In a small bowl, mix ketchup, soy sauce, garlic, oyster sauce, and water until well combined.
Pour the sauce into the pan once the eggs are half-cooked.
Baste the eggs with the sauce while it simmers, allowing the whites to cook through while keeping the yolks slightly runny.
Add jalapeños or chili oil if desired, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve over rice and finish with sesame oil, sesame seeds, and the remaining scallions.

Servings and timing

Servings: 1 serving
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

You can scramble the eggs instead of frying them for a softer texture. Add tomatoes for a twist similar to a tomato-egg stir fry. If you like spice, increase the chili oil or add fresh chilies. For extra protein, include cooked bacon, sausage, or tofu. You can also serve it on toast instead of rice for a different style.

Storage/Reheating

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals to avoid overcooking the eggs. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use scrambled eggs instead of fried?

Yes, scrambling the eggs works well and creates a softer, more blended texture with the sauce.

Is oyster sauce necessary?

No, it’s optional, but it adds extra depth and umami flavor.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs best with rice, but toast or noodles also work great.

Can I make this spicy?

Yes, add chili oil, jalapeños, or even hot sauce for extra heat.

Can I use other sauces instead of soy sauce?

You can substitute with tamari or a light seasoning sauce, but soy sauce gives the best balance.

How do I keep the yolk runny?

Cook the eggs gently and avoid overcooking after adding the sauce.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, just skip the spicy ingredients for a milder version.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely—bell peppers, tomatoes, or spinach are great additions.

What type of oil works best?

Neutral oils like vegetable or canola oil are ideal.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply scale the ingredients and use a larger pan.

Conclusion

Fried egg with ketchup is proof that simple ingredients can create bold and satisfying flavors. With its quick preparation, minimal cleanup, and customizable options, this dish is perfect for any time of the day. Whether served over rice or enjoyed on its own, it’s a comforting recipe you’ll want to make again and again.