Soy Sauce Eggs, or Shoyu Tamago, are a popular Japanese delicacy that features soft-boiled eggs marinated in a savory soy sauce mixture. The result is a perfectly cooked egg with a creamy, jammy yolk and a rich, umami flavor that enhances any dish. These eggs are often served as a topping for ramen, rice bowls, or enjoyed as a snack on their own. Their beautiful appearance and delicious taste make them a versatile addition to various meals, adding both flavor and visual appeal.
Ingredients:
- For the Soy Sauce Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (preferably low-sodium)
- 1/4 cup mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)
- 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup water
- For the Eggs:
- 4 large eggs
- Water (for boiling)
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, mirin, sake (if using), sugar, and water.
- Heat the Marinade: Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Boil the Eggs
- Boil Water: In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil.
- Prepare the Eggs: Gently add the eggs to the boiling water using a slotted spoon.
- Cook the Eggs: Boil the eggs for 6-7 minutes for jammy yolks (6 minutes for slightly runnier yolks, 7 minutes for firmer but still soft yolks).
- Ice Bath: Once cooked, immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath (a bowl of ice water) to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for about 5-10 minutes.
Step 3: Peel and Marinate the Eggs
- Peel the Eggs: Gently tap the eggs on a hard surface to crack the shell, then peel them under running water to make it easier.
- Marinate: Place the peeled eggs in a container and pour the cooled soy sauce marinade over them. Ensure the eggs are fully submerged.
- Marination Time: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, for the best flavor.
Step 4: Serve
- Slice and Enjoy: When ready to serve, remove the eggs from the marinade. You can slice them in half to reveal the beautiful jammy yolk.
- Garnish (Optional): Serve the eggs as a topping for ramen, rice bowls, or enjoy them on their own. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or nori for added flavor and presentation.
These Soy Sauce Eggs with Jammy Yolks are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making them a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the rich umami flavor and the delightful texture of these eggs in your favorite dishes!
