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 gatherings, meal prep, or as a simple snack, mayak eggs blend rich flavors and an appealing texture that will leave you wanting more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create these delightful marinated eggs in no time.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of soy sauce, honey, and spices makes every bite bursting with flavor.
- Versatile Addition: Serve them with rice, salads, or as part of a larger spread. They fit seamlessly into any meal.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Marinate ahead of time and enjoy for days. These eggs last up to a week in the fridge!
- Instagram-Worthy: Their vibrant colors make them not only tasty but also visually appealing for your food photos.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools will simplify the process of making mayak eggs. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Spider strainer or slotted spoon
- Mixing bowl
- Airtight container
Importance of Each Tool
- Medium saucepan: Essential for boiling the eggs evenly, ensuring perfect doneness.
- 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 to enhance their flavors before adding the eggs.
- Airtight container: Keeps the marinated eggs fresh longer while infusing them with flavor.

Ingredients
For the Mayak 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 for room-temperature eggs or 7 minutes if using cold eggs from the refrigerator.
Step 2: Chill the Eggs
After boiling:
1. Remove the eggs from the saucepan.
2. Place them in a water bath for 10 minutes or until cooled completely.
3. Gently peel off the shells 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 red pepper, sliced jalapeno, and toasted sesame seeds.
2. Mix well until fully combined.
Step 4: Marinate Overnight
- Place the peeled eggs in an airtight container.
- Pour the marinade over them until fully submerged.
- Seal and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight.
Step 5: Serve
Enjoy your delicious mayak eggs with freshly cooked rice! Add a spoonful of marinade on top and drizzle with sesame oil for extra flavor.
How to Serve Mayak Eggs
Mayak eggs are a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Their sweet and spicy flavor pairs well with various accompaniments, making them perfect for different dining experiences.
With Rice
- Serve the mayak eggs over a bowl of freshly cooked rice for a comforting and hearty meal. The rich marinade enhances the rice’s flavor.
As a Snack
- Enjoy mayak eggs as a standalone snack. Their savory profile makes them an addictive treat at any time of day.
In a Salad
- Slice the marinated eggs and add them to a salad. They add protein and a unique taste that complements fresh greens and dressings.
On Toast
- Top whole-grain toast with sliced mayak eggs for a delicious breakfast or brunch option. Drizzle with sesame oil for extra flavor.
With Noodles
- Incorporate mayak eggs into noodle dishes. Their marinade can infuse the noodles with sweetness and umami, creating an exciting fusion.
How to Perfect Mayak Eggs
Perfecting mayak eggs is all about timing and balance in flavors. Follow these tips to ensure your eggs are marinated to perfection.
-
Choose the right eggs: Fresh, good-quality eggs yield better texture and flavor. Look for organic or free-range options if possible.
-
Control boiling time: Adjust boiling time based on your preferred yolk consistency. Aim for 6–7 minutes for that ideal jammy texture.
-
Cool thoroughly: Ensure you cool the boiled eggs properly in an ice bath to stop cooking and make peeling easier.
-
Marinate longer: For maximum flavor, let the eggs marinate overnight. This allows them to soak up all the delicious soy sauce mixture.
-
Store correctly: Keep marinated eggs in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness up to one week.
Best Side Dishes for Mayak Eggs
Serving mayak eggs with complementary side dishes enhances their flavor profile and creates a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:
-
Kimchi: This traditional Korean side dish adds spice and crunch, balancing the sweetness of the mayak eggs perfectly.
-
Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or bok choy provides nutrition and contrasts nicely with the rich taste of marinated eggs.
-
Rice Paper Rolls: Fresh rolls filled with veggies and herbs offer a refreshing crunch alongside your flavorful mayak eggs.
-
Korean Pickled Radish: These tangy pickles add brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the soy-marinated flavors.
-
Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry: A stir-fry featuring tofu packed with vegetables brings protein diversity while complementing the dish’s overall taste.
-
Sesame Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumbers dressed in sesame oil provide a light, crisp counterpoint to the savory egg dish.
-
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup rounds out your meal, offering comforting warmth alongside your flavorful mayak eggs.
-
Seaweed Salad: This light salad is packed with umami flavors that pair wonderfully with the sweet-spicy notes of mayak eggs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience while preparing Mayak Eggs. Here are some tips to ensure a successful outcome.
- Bold Timing: Overcooking the eggs can lead to a rubbery texture. Stick to the recommended boiling time of 6-7 minutes for the perfect jammy consistency.
- Bold Incorrect Cooling: Skipping the ice bath after boiling can result in difficult peeling. Always cool the eggs in a water bath for 10 minutes to make peeling easier.
- Bold Poor Marinade Mixing: Not thoroughly mixing the marinade may leave some ingredients unevenly distributed. Ensure you combine all marinade ingredients well for consistent flavor.
- Bold Inadequate Marinating Time: Rushing the marination process can lead to bland eggs. Aim for at least 6 hours, but overnight is ideal for maximum flavor absorption.
- Bold Storage Missteps: Storing eggs in a non-airtight container can affect their quality. Use an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor while stored in the refrigerator.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Mayak Eggs in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- They will last in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Freezing Mayak Eggs
- Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the eggs.
- If necessary, freeze only if you’ve used them in a recipe that allows for thawing.
Reheating Mayak Eggs
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat eggs wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Microwave on low power for short intervals (15-30 seconds) to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Warm eggs gently in a pan on low heat with a splash of water to steam them lightly without cooking further.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Mayak Eggs.
What are Mayak Eggs?
Mayak Eggs are Korean soy-marinated soft-boiled eggs that are sweet, spicy, and highly addictive, typically served as a banchan or side dish.
How do I achieve the perfect jammy yolk for Mayak Eggs?
To get that jammy yolk, boil your eggs for precisely 6-7 minutes, then cool them quickly in an ice bath immediately after cooking.
Can I customize my Mayak Eggs?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper or even incorporating other ingredients like sesame oil or different herbs.
How long do Mayak Eggs last in the refrigerator?
These delectable marinated eggs can be stored in an airtight container and will remain fresh for up to one week.
Can I use other types of sauce besides soy sauce?
Yes! You can experiment with alternative sauces like tamari or coconut aminos if you’re looking for gluten-free options or want different flavors.
Final Thoughts
Mayak Eggs offer a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors that can elevate any meal. Their versatility makes them perfect as a snack, side dish, or part of a rice bowl. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite spices or add-ins!
Mayak Eggs
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 (one egg per serving) 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Mayak Eggs, a popular Korean banchan that combines sweet and spicy flavors with a tender, jammy texture. These soy garlic marinated eggs are not just a treat for the taste buds; they also add a vibrant touch to any meal. The perfect accompaniment to rice bowls, salads, or as a standalone snack, Mayak Eggs are easy to prepare and can be made ahead for convenient snacking throughout the week. With their irresistible flavor and eye-catching appearance, these marinated eggs will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
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 by bringing water, salt, and vinegar to a boil in a medium saucepan. Carefully lower the eggs into the boiling water and simmer for 6 minutes for room-temperature eggs or 7 minutes for cold eggs.
- After boiling, transfer the eggs to an ice bath for about 10 minutes until cooled completely. Peel the shells gently.
- In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, water, honey, diced onion, minced garlic, scallions, sliced peppers, and toasted sesame seeds. Mix well.
- Place peeled eggs in an airtight container and pour marinade over them until fully submerged. Seal and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight.
- Serve with freshly cooked rice or enjoy as a snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Side
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 egg (50g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Keywords: For extra flavor variations, consider adding different spices to the marinade or adjusting the type of pepper based on your preferred heat level. Ensure to store marinated eggs in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to one week.




