Introduction
Ramen eggs, also known as Ajitsuke Tamago, are delicious, soft-boiled eggs marinated in a flavorful soy sauce-based mixture. These eggs are a popular topping for ramen noodles, salads, or enjoyed on their own as a snack. Making these eggs at home is surprisingly easy and can elevate your homemade ramen to a restaurant-quality level.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, sliced
Instructions
1. Boil the Eggs
Start by boiling a pot of water. Gently add the eggs to the boiling water and cook for exactly 6 minutes for a runny yolk or 7 minutes for a slightly firmer yolk. After the cooking time is up, immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
2. Prepare the Marinade
- Combine soy sauce, mirin, water, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a medium saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then remove from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.
3. Marinate the Eggs
Once the eggs have cooled, carefully peel them under running water to make sure the shell comes off easily. Place the peeled eggs in a container that fits them snugly.
- Pour the marinade over the eggs, making sure they are completely submerged.
- Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
4. Serve and Enjoy
When ready to eat, remove the eggs from the marinade and slice them in half. The ramen eggs can be served on top of a bowl of steaming hot ramen noodles, in a salad, or enjoyed on their own as a tasty snack.
Tips for Perfect Ramen Eggs
- Use fresh eggs: Fresh eggs will have a firmer white, making them easier to peel after boiling.
- Adjust the marinade: Feel free to customize the marinade by adding ingredients like chili flakes, star anise, or green onions for extra flavor.
- Make extra: Ramen eggs keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, so make a batch to have on hand for quick meals throughout the week.
Conclusion
Learning how to make ramen eggs at home is a simple and rewarding process that can take your homemade ramen to the next level. By following this recipe and adding your own twist to the marinade, you can create delicious and flavorful eggs that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy these versatile eggs as a topping for your favorite dishes or on their own as a snack!
