Mayak Eggs (Korean Marinated Eggs)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Experience the deliciously addictive taste of Mayak Eggs, a popular Korean snack that will have you coming back for more. These marinated eggs are bursting with flavor and are perfect as a side dish or a snack.

Felicity Grant

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2025-12-23T04:06:36.563Z

Mayak Eggs, or 'drug eggs' in Korean, earned their nickname for being irresistibly addictive. This dish is made by marinating hard-boiled eggs in a flavorful mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and chili, resulting in a savory treat that pairs well with rice or can be enjoyed on its own.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Simple ingredients that come together in a flavorful marinade
  • Perfectly soft-boiled eggs with a savory kick
  • Ideal for meal prep or as a delicious snack

The Perfect Snack for Any Occasion

Mayak Eggs are not just a delicious treat; they are incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a flavorful addition to your lunch, or a unique appetizer for gatherings, these marinated eggs fit the bill perfectly. Their savory taste and beautiful presentation make them a hit at parties, while their simplicity ensures they are easy to whip up at home.

These eggs are also a fantastic option for meal prep. With just a little time spent marinating, you can have a nutritious snack ready to go for the week. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with rice, salads, or even as a topping for noodles, making them a staple in your meal rotation.

Health Benefits of Mayak Eggs

In addition to being delicious, Mayak Eggs also offer various health benefits. Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. They also contain important vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin D, B12, and selenium, making them a nutritious choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet.

The marinade, rich in soy sauce and sesame oil, adds a flavorful twist while also delivering antioxidants from garlic and green onions. These ingredients can help boost your immune system, reduce inflammation, and support heart health. So, not only do you get a tasty snack, but you also benefit from the nutritious properties of these simple ingredients.

Customizing Your Mayak Eggs

One of the great things about Mayak Eggs is their adaptability. While the traditional marinade is savory and slightly spicy, you can easily customize the flavors to suit your taste. For a sweeter profile, consider adding a touch of honey or sugar to the marinade. If you enjoy a bit more heat, increase the chili flakes or add in some sliced fresh chili peppers.

Additionally, try experimenting with different herbs or spices. Adding a few sprigs of fresh cilantro or dill can provide a fresh twist, while sesame seeds can enhance the flavor and texture. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a version of Mayak Eggs that’s uniquely yours!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Mayak Eggs:

Ingredients for Mayak Eggs

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 2 green onions, chopped

Ensure you have all these ingredients ready before starting the marination process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own Mayak Eggs:

Boil the Eggs

Place the eggs in a pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 7 minutes. After that, transfer the eggs to an ice bath to cool.

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and chili flakes. Stir well to mix the ingredients.

Marinate the Eggs

Once the eggs are cooled, gently peel them and place them in a jar. Pour the marinade over the eggs, making sure they are fully submerged. Add chopped green onions on top.

Refrigerate

Seal the jar and place it in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve

Once marinated, enjoy the eggs as a snack or as a side dish with your favorite meal.

Enjoy your delicious Mayak Eggs!

Storage Tips for Mayak Eggs

Once you’ve prepared your Mayak Eggs, proper storage is key to maintaining their flavor and freshness. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week, allowing you to enjoy them throughout the week. Just make sure they stay submerged in the marinade to maximize flavor retention.

If you notice that the marinade is getting low, you can always top it up with a little extra soy sauce or a splash of rice vinegar. This not only keeps the eggs flavorful but also ensures that they remain juicy and succulent.

Serving Suggestions

Mayak Eggs can be served in various ways, making them a delightful addition to any meal. For a quick breakfast or brunch, pair them with toast and avocado, or crumble them over a salad for added protein and flavor. They also make a great addition to rice bowls, providing a savory element that complements grains and vegetables beautifully.

For a fun twist, consider using them as a topping for ramen. Their rich, umami flavor enhances the broth, and their creamy yolks create a luscious texture. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these marinated eggs are sure to impress!

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Questions About Recipes

→ How long can I store Mayak Eggs?

Mayak Eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I use different spices in the marinade?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like black pepper or adding a touch of honey for sweetness.

→ Are these eggs suitable for meal prep?

Yes, they are perfect for meal prep and can be added to salads, rice bowls, or enjoyed on their own.

→ Can I use soft-boiled eggs instead of hard-boiled?

Yes, you can use soft-boiled eggs for a different texture, just adjust the boiling time accordingly.

Mayak Eggs (Korean Marinated Eggs)

Experience the deliciously addictive taste of Mayak Eggs, a popular Korean snack that will have you coming back for more. These marinated eggs are bursting with flavor and are perfect as a side dish or a snack.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration0 minutes
Overall Time24 hours

Created by: Felicity Grant

Recipe Type: Global Flavors

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients for Mayak Eggs

  1. 4 large eggs
  2. 1/2 cup soy sauce
  3. 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  4. 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  5. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  7. 2 green onions, chopped

How-To Steps

Step 01

Place the eggs in a pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 7 minutes. After that, transfer the eggs to an ice bath to cool.

Step 02

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and chili flakes. Stir well to mix the ingredients.

Step 03

Once the eggs are cooled, gently peel them and place them in a jar. Pour the marinade over the eggs, making sure they are fully submerged. Add chopped green onions on top.

Step 04

Seal the jar and place it in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 05

Once marinated, enjoy the eggs as a snack or as a side dish with your favorite meal.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 186mg
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 10g