Addictive Marinated Eggs (Mayak Gyeran)
The Ultimate Rice-Stealing Side Dish: Mayak Gyeran Recipe
Discover the irresistible allure of ‘Mayak Gyeran,’ aptly named ‘addictive eggs’ because you simply can’t stop at one! This popular Korean banchan features perfectly soft-boiled eggs swimming in a savory, umami-rich soy sauce marinade. It’s a simple yet profoundly satisfying dish that will have you reaching for more rice with every bite. Follow along to create this delightful condiment that’s perfect for any meal!
Addictive Marinade Ingredients- 2/3 cup soy sauce (120ml)
- 2/3 cup water (120ml)
- 1 Tbsp oligosaccharide (15ml)
- 1 Tbsp sugar (15ml)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (approx. 1 stalk)
- 1/4 small onion, finely minced
- 2-3 Cheongyang chili peppers (adjust to spice preference), thinly sliced
- 1.5 Tbsp minced garlic (20g)
- A pinch of sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s prepare the delicious marinade that makes these ‘addictive eggs’ so special. In a deep bowl or measuring cup, pour in 2/3 cup (about 120ml) of soy sauce.
Step 2
Add an equal amount of water, 2/3 cup (about 120ml), to the soy sauce. A 1:1 ratio of soy sauce to water creates a balanced salinity that’s pleasant for everyone to enjoy.
Step 3
Stir in 1 tablespoon (about 15ml) of oligosaccharide for a touch of sweetness. This will add a lovely sheen and mellow sweetness to the marinade.
Step 4
Add 1 tablespoon (about 15ml) of sugar to complement the sweetness. Using both oligosaccharide and sugar creates a richer, more complex sweet flavor.
Step 5
Add 1/2 cup (approximately 1 stalk’s worth) of finely chopped fresh green onions. The subtle aroma of the green onions will infuse the marinade, adding a deeper flavor dimension.
Step 6
Finely mince 1/4 of a small onion and add it to the mixture. The natural sweetness of the onion will significantly enhance the savory depth of the soy sauce marinade. Ensure it’s minced very finely to avoid a chunky texture.
Step 7
Thinly slice 2-3 Cheongyang chili peppers for a pleasant spicy kick. Feel free to add more if you love heat, or omit them for a milder version, perhaps using regular green peppers if serving to children.
Step 8
Generously add 1.5 tablespoons (about 20g) of minced garlic. The pungent aroma of garlic not only adds depth but also helps to eliminate any eggy smell, making the marinade even more enticing.
Step 9
Using a spoon or whisk, thoroughly mix all the marinade ingredients and vegetables. It’s important to ensure everything is well combined for an even distribution of flavors.
Step 10
Once the marinade is well blended, sprinkle in a pinch of sesame seeds for added nutty aroma. You can adjust the amount of sesame seeds to your liking.
Step 11
Now it’s time to prepare the eggs! Bring a pot of water to a boil, then carefully add 8 eggs. Cook them for about 7-8 minutes to achieve a perfect soft-boiled state – this is where the magic happens! Immediately transfer the boiled eggs to an ice bath to stop the cooking and make peeling easier. Tip: For easier peeling, let the eggs come to room temperature before boiling or add a little vinegar or salt to the boiling water.
Step 12
Once peeled, place all the soft-boiled eggs into the prepared marinade. Ensure the eggs are fully submerged in the liquid. Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer they marinate, the deeper the flavors will penetrate the eggs, creating that truly addictive taste. Enjoy your perfectly made Mayak Gyeran as a delicious side for rice or a simple snack!
