Name: Korean Soy Marinated Eggs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 6 h 17 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 6 large eggs; Cold water; Ice (for the ice bath); 1/2 cup soy sauce (regular or low-sodium); 1/2 cup water; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon honey (optional but adds depth); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 small red chili or green chili (thinly sliced); 2 scallions (chopped); 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds; 1 teaspoon sesame oil

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Introduction

Korean Soy Marinated Eggs are a flavorful twist on classic boiled eggs, soaking up a savory and slightly sweet soy marinade. They make a perfect snack, side dish, or topping for rice bowls and noodles.

A beige round bowl holds six smooth, shiny eggs covered in a dark brown sauce with a glossy texture. The eggs are scattered evenly, with slices of bright red chili peppers and small green onion rings sprinkled on top for color. Tiny white sesame seeds are spread around the eggs and sauce, adding small spots of texture. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, creating a simple and clean backdrop. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 large eggs
Cold water
Ice (for the ice bath)
1/2 cup soy sauce (regular or low-sodium)
1/2 cup water
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon honey (optional but adds depth)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 small red chili (or green chili, thinly sliced)
2 scallions (chopped)
1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
1 teaspoon sesame oil

Instructions

Step 1: Fill a medium saucepan with water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, gently lower in the eggs with a spoon and boil for exactly 7 minutes for a gooey, soft-centered yolk.
Step 2: Immediately transfer the eggs into a bowl of ice water. Let them sit for at least 5 minutes to stop the cooking process and make peeling easier.
Step 3: Tap the eggs gently on a hard surface and peel them under running cold water to minimize tearing.
Step 4: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, sliced chili, chopped scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and sesame oil. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Step 5: Place the peeled eggs in a jar or container and pour the marinade over them, ensuring the eggs are fully submerged. Use parchment paper or plastic wrap on top if needed to keep eggs under the liquid.
Step 6: Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors develop fully.
Step 7: Slice the eggs in half and serve cold or at room temperature. Optionally, drizzle with extra marinade and sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use low-sodium soy sauce for a milder saltiness and better control over flavor.
Add a few slices of ginger to the marinade for an extra layer of warmth.
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
These eggs are excellent as a ramen topping or served with steamed rice for a quick snack.

Storage

Store the marinated eggs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently by bringing to room temperature or enjoy them cold as is. Avoid keeping them for too long to maintain the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

The image shows a white bowl filled with seven shiny brown eggs soaked in a dark, rich soy sauce. The eggs are covered with finely chopped green onions and small pieces of bright red chili peppers. White sesame seeds are sprinkled on top, adding texture and a bit of contrast. The sauce looks thick and glossy, partially filling the bowl around the eggs. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown eggs instead of white eggs?

Yes, you can use either brown or white eggs. The color doesn’t affect the flavor or texture of the marinated eggs.

How long can I marinate the eggs for best results?

Marinating for at least 6 hours is necessary, but overnight is best for the yolks to develop rich flavor and color. You can marinate up to 24 hours, but beyond that the texture may start to change.