Name: Mayak Eggs (Korean Marinated Eggs)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 6 large eggs; 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/2 cup water; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon honey or corn syrup; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 green onions, finely chopped; 1 fresh red chili, thinly sliced (optional); 1 teaspoon sesame seeds; 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Why You’ll Love Mayak Eggs Recipe

These marinated eggs are incredibly easy to prepare yet deliver bold, complex flavors. The silky yolk pairs beautifully with the savory-sweet marinade, creating a satisfying bite every time. They are perfect for meal prep, require simple pantry ingredients, and can elevate even a plain bowl of rice into something special. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, side dish, or protein topping, they are versatile and deeply flavorful.

Ingredients

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

6 large eggs
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup water
1/3 to 1/2 cup honey, sugar, or rice syrup
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely diced
1 to 2 fresh chili peppers, finely chopped
1 green onion, finely sliced
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
1 teaspoon white vinegar (for boiling)
1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)

Directions

Bring a pot of water to a gentle boil. Add salt and white vinegar to the water.
Carefully lower the eggs into the boiling water using a spoon.
Boil for 6 to 7 minutes for a soft, jammy yolk. For firmer yolks, cook an additional 1 to 2 minutes.
Immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath and let them cool completely.
Gently peel the eggs under running water to avoid tearing the whites.
In a bowl or airtight container, combine soy sauce, water, honey (or sugar), garlic, onion, chili peppers, green onion, and sesame seeds. Stir well.
Place the peeled eggs into the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 5 hours, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
Serve whole or halved over warm rice with a spoonful of the marinade.

Servings and timing

Servings: 3 to 4 servings (6 eggs)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 7 minutes
Marinating time: Minimum 5 hours, ideally overnight
Total time: Approximately 6 hours including marination

Storage/Reheating

Store the eggs in an airtight container in the refrigerator, fully submerged in the marinade. They will stay fresh for up to 4 days. For best texture and flavor, enjoy them cold or at room temperature. If you prefer them slightly warm, microwave for about 10 seconds, but avoid overheating as it can firm up the yolk.

FAQs

What does “Mayak” mean?

“Mayak” means addictive, referring to how irresistible these eggs are once you start eating them.

Can I use hard-boiled eggs instead?

Yes, you can cook the eggs longer if you prefer fully set yolks. The flavor will still be delicious.

How long should I marinate the eggs?

At least 5 hours is recommended, but overnight marinating produces the best flavor.

Can I make this recipe less spicy?

Absolutely. Simply omit the chili peppers or reduce the quantity to suit your preference.

What can I serve with Mayak Eggs?

They are most commonly served over steamed rice but also pair well with ramen, salads, or grain bowls.

Can I reuse the marinade?

You may reuse it within a couple of days if it remains clean and properly refrigerated, but avoid reuse if any egg yolk has mixed into it.

Are these eggs eaten cold?

Yes, they are traditionally enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Can I substitute the sweetener?

Yes, honey, sugar, or rice syrup all work well. Adjust the amount based on your desired sweetness.

Why add vinegar to the boiling water?

Vinegar helps the egg whites set quickly and can make peeling easier.

How do I prevent the eggs from cracking while boiling?

Lower them gently into the water and avoid overcrowding the pot. Starting with room-temperature eggs also helps reduce cracking.

Conclusion

Mayak Eggs are a simple yet bold Korean-inspired dish that transforms everyday eggs into a flavorful experience. With their savory marinade, silky yolk, and versatility, they make an excellent addition to quick meals, meal prep routines, or side dish spreads. Once you try them, you’ll understand exactly why they’ve earned their addictive reputation.

Mayak Eggs (Korean Marinated Eggs)

Why You’ll Love Mayak Eggs Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Servings and timing

Storage/Reheating