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 appetizers or a quick snack, these eggs bring a unique flavor that pairs well with various dishes. Whether you’re enjoying them solo or adding them to your favorite rice bowls, mayak eggs will surely impress your guests.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Eggs
- For the Marinade
- How to Make Mayak Eggs
- Step 1: Soft Boil the Eggs
- Step 2: Chill the Eggs
- Step 3: Make the Marinade
- Step 4: Marinate Overnight
- Step 5: Serve
- How to Serve Mayak Eggs
- With Steamed Rice
- In a Rice Bowl
- As a Snack
- In a Salad
- With Noodles
- How to Perfect Mayak Eggs
- Best Side Dishes for Mayak Eggs
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Mayak Eggs
- Reheating Mayak Eggs
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are Mayak Eggs?
- How long should I marinate Mayak Eggs?
- Can I customize my Mayak Eggs?
- How many servings does this recipe make?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these delicious marinated eggs in no time.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of soy sauce, honey, and garlic creates a mouthwatering marinade that makes every bite irresistible.
- Versatile Use: Enjoy mayak eggs on their own, as a side dish, or as a topping for rice bowls and salads for an extra flavor boost.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These marinated eggs can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthful Ingredients: Packed with protein and low in calories, mayak eggs offer a nutritious addition to any meal.
Tools and Preparation
To create perfect mayak eggs, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Spider strainer or slotted spoon
- Mixing bowl
- Airtight container
Importance of Each Tool
- Medium saucepan: Ideal for boiling the eggs evenly to achieve that perfect soft-boiled texture.
- Spider strainer or slotted spoon: Helps safely lower the eggs into boiling water and lift them out without breaking.
- Mixing bowl: Used for combining the marinade ingredients thoroughly before adding the eggs.
- Airtight container: Keeps the marinating process effective by sealing in flavors while preventing contamination.

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
In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil with salt and vinegar. Using a spider strainer or slotted spoon:
1. Carefully lower the eggs into the boiling water.
2. Ensure that the water completely covers the eggs.
3. Simmer on medium heat for 6 minutes if using room-temperature eggs or 7 minutes for cold eggs from the refrigerator.
Step 2: Chill the Eggs
After boiling:
1. Remove the eggs from boiling water.
2. Place them in an ice bath or cold water for about 10 minutes until cooled.
3. Gently peel each egg once cooled.
Step 3: Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine soy sauce, water, honey, diced onion, minced garlic, minced scallions, sliced Korean pepper, sliced serrano pepper, and toasted sesame seeds.
2. Stir well until all ingredients are blended.
Step 4: Marinate Overnight
- Place peeled eggs in an airtight container.
- Pour the marinade over the eggs until they are fully submerged.
- Seal and refrigerate for at least 6 hours; overnight is best.
Step 5: Serve
Enjoy your delicious Korean marinated mayak eggs with freshly cooked rice! Drizzle some sesame oil over them along with a spoonful of marinade for added flavor.
How to Serve Mayak Eggs
Mayak eggs are a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Their sweet and spicy flavor pairs beautifully with various sides. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of your delicious mayak eggs.
With Steamed Rice
- Serve the mayak eggs on a bed of freshly cooked rice. The sauce will soak into the rice, enhancing its flavor.
In a Rice Bowl
- Create a rice bowl topped with chopped vegetables like cucumbers and carrots along with the marinated eggs for a colorful and nutritious meal.
As a Snack
- Enjoy mayak eggs as a snack on their own or with a drizzle of sesame oil for added richness.
In a Salad
- Slice the mayak eggs and add them to a green salad. Their savory flavor complements fresh greens beautifully.
With Noodles
- Toss the marinated eggs in with stir-fried noodles for an added protein boost and delightful taste.
How to Perfect Mayak Eggs
Perfecting mayak eggs requires attention to detail during preparation and marination. Follow these tips for optimal results.
Use Fresh Eggs: Fresh eggs yield better texture and flavor, making your mayak eggs more delicious.
Control Cooking Time: Soft boil the eggs for exactly 6-7 minutes to achieve that perfect jammy center.
Cool Quickly: Place boiled eggs in ice water immediately after cooking to stop the cooking process and make peeling easier.
Marinate Overnight: For maximum flavor infusion, allow the eggs to marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
Best Side Dishes for Mayak Eggs
Mayak eggs pair well with various side dishes, enhancing your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:
Kimchi: A classic Korean side dish that adds tangy spice, complementing the sweetness of mayak eggs.
Sesame Spinach: Simple blanched spinach tossed with sesame oil and seeds offers a nutty flavor that balances well.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with vinegar dressing provides crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the eggs.
Rice Cakes: Chewy rice cakes bring texture and can be enjoyed plain or seasoned for extra flavor.
Pickled Radishes: Sweet and crunchy pickled radishes contrast nicely with savory flavors, adding brightness to your plate.
Grilled Tofu: Marinated and grilled tofu offers a plant-based protein option that harmonizes with mayak eggs’ flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Mayak Eggs can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Timing the Boil: Overcooking the eggs will lead to a rubbery texture. Stick to 6-7 minutes for soft-boiled perfection.
- Skipping the Water Bath: Not chilling the eggs after boiling can make peeling difficult. Always place them in an ice water bath for easier peeling.
- Ignoring Marination Time: Rushing the marination process won’t allow the flavors to develop fully. For best results, marinate overnight.
- Using Low-Quality Soy Sauce: Poor-quality soy sauce can ruin the flavor of your Mayak Eggs. Invest in a good brand for authentic taste.
- Not Adjusting Spiciness: If you’re sensitive to spice, adjust the amount of Korean red pepper and serrano accordingly. Always taste your marinade before adding too much.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the Mayak Eggs in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Mayak Eggs
- It is not recommended to freeze Mayak Eggs as it can alter their texture.
- If you must, store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Mayak Eggs
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds; check and repeat if necessary.
- Stovetop: Gently warm in a pan over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Mayak Eggs that may help you out.
What are Mayak Eggs?
Mayak Eggs are soy garlic marinated eggs known for their sweet and spicy flavor profile, often served as a side dish or appetizer.
How long should I marinate Mayak Eggs?
For best results, marinate your eggs overnight or at least 6 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop.
Can I customize my Mayak Eggs?
Absolutely! You can adjust spices or add ingredients like sesame oil or different types of peppers based on your preference.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields about three servings, perfect as a side dish or snack.
Final Thoughts
Mayak Eggs are not only delicious but also versatile enough to complement various meals. You can enjoy them with rice or as part of a larger spread. Feel free to experiment with different spices and marinades to suit your taste!
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Mayak Eggs
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Approximately three servings (2 eggs each) 1x
Description
Mayak Eggs are a delightful Korean banchan that combines sweet and spicy flavors in a beautifully marinated soft-boiled egg. These soy garlic marinated eggs are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, making them perfect for rice bowls, salads, or enjoyed on their own as a quick snack. With their addictive taste and appealing presentation, Mayak Eggs will elevate any meal and impress your guests. The unique marinade featuring soy sauce, honey, and garlic infuses the eggs with a mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist. Prepare them ahead of time for a convenient and nutritious addition to your weekly meal prep.
Ingredients
- 6 eggs
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 small yellow onion (diced)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 stalks scallions (minced)
- 1 Korean red pepper (sliced)
- 1 serrano pepper (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Soft boil the eggs: In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil with salt and vinegar. Carefully lower the eggs in and simmer for 6 minutes for room-temperature eggs or 7 minutes for cold ones.
- Chill the eggs: Remove from boiling water and place in an ice bath for about 10 minutes until cooled. Peel once cooled.
- Make the marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, water, honey, diced onion, minced garlic, minced scallions, sliced peppers, and sesame seeds. Stir well.
- Marinate: Place peeled eggs in an airtight container, pour the marinade over them until fully submerged. Seal and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Serve: Enjoy with rice or as a topping on salads.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Boiling/Marinating
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 105
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 490mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 186mg





