Korean Marinated Eggs - Mayak Gyeran

Korean marinated eggs, also known as "Mayak Gyeran" (마약계란), are a popular side dish or snack in Korean cuisine. "Mayak" means "drug" in Korean, and the name is a playful reference to how addictive these eggs are due to their delicious flavor. 

Typically, the eggs are cooked until the yolks are just set but still slightly soft (jammy eggs) and kept in a marinate.

The marinated eggs can be served as a side dish with rice, added to ramen, or enjoyed on their own.

These marinated eggs are known for their rich, umami flavor and the delightful combination of the soy-based marinade with the creamy texture of the yolk. They are often found in Korean households and can be a great addition to various meals.

Ingredients:

- 6 eggs

- 30g white vinegar

- 120ml soy sauce

- 120ml water

- 80g brown sugar or honey

- 4 garlic cloves, chopped

- 40g yellow onions, chopped

- 4 scallions, chopped: 

- 1 jalapeno, chopped (optional)

- 1 red chili, chopped (optional)

- 1-2 Thai chilis, chopped (optional, for extra heat)

- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds:

- Sesame oil (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Boil the Eggs:

   - Add enough water to a pot to cover all the eggs. Bring the pot of water to a boil.

   - Add the vinegar to the boiling water, then gently drop in the eggs. Boil the eggs for 6 minutes for soft-boiled eggs.

   - After 6 minutes, remove the eggs from the pot and transfer them to an ice bath. Let the eggs cool completely for about 5 minutes in the ice bath.

2. Make the Marinade:

   - In an airtight glass container, combine the chopped garlic, scallions, onions, peppers, soy sauce, honey or sugar, water, and sesame seeds. 

   - Stir all the ingredients together with a spoon.

3. Marinate the Eggs:

   - Gently crack and peel all the cooled eggs. Place the peeled eggs into the marinade.

   - Cover the container with a lid and let the eggs marinate for at least 6 hours in the fridge. Overnight marination is best for optimal flavor.

4. Serve:

   - Serve the marinated eggs with a bowl of warm rice, a drizzle of sesame oil, and some of the marinade sauce.