Mayak Gyeran—literally "drug eggs" in Korean due to their addictive flavor—is a beloved Korean side dish featuring soft-boiled eggs marinated in a savory-sweet soy mixture with garlic, onions, chilies, and sesame seeds. These eggs are rich, flavorful, and incredibly versatile—serve them over warm rice, enjoy on their own, or drop one into your next bowl of ramen for an instant flavor boost.
Bring a pot of water to a gentle boil. Using a spoon, carefully lower the eggs into the boiling water. Cook for 6 minutes and 30 seconds for jammy yolks. Stir gently for the first minute to help center the yolks.
Immediately transfer the eggs into an ice bath to stop the cooking. Let sit for at least 5–7 minutes until fully cooled. Peel the eggs carefully.
In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, water, mirin, and honey. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved. Add chopped green onions, sliced white onion, minced garlic, red chilies, and toasted sesame seeds.
Place the peeled eggs in a clean container. Pour the marinade over the eggs, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight, for maximum flavor.
Serve cold or at room temperature over steamed rice, add to ramen, or enjoy as a flavorful snack on its own. Spoon some of the marinade over the eggs when serving for extra flavor.