Have you ever enjoyed a bowl of ramen and wondered what makes it even more delicious? One of the secrets lies in the Ajitsuke Tamago, also known as the ramen egg. This flavorful, soft-boiled egg is marinated in a tasty soy sauce mixture, making it a perfect topping for ramen and other dishes!
Ajitsuke Tamago not only enhances the flavor of ramen but also adds a beautiful touch to your meals. This dish has deep roots in Japanese culture and is often enjoyed in izakayas (Japanese pubs) and ramen shops throughout Japan. People love it because it’s easy to make and adds a burst of flavor that can turn an ordinary meal into something special!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Eggs | 4 large |
| Soy Sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Mirin (sweet rice wine) | 2 tablespoons |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
If you can’t find mirin, you can substitute with a bit of honey mixed with water for a similar sweetness!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Boil the Eggs: Fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, gently add the eggs and boil for exactly 6-7 minutes for a soft center.
- Prepare an Ice Bath: While the eggs are boiling, fill a bowl with ice water. This will stop the cooking process later.
- Cool the Eggs: After the timer goes off, transfer the eggs to the ice bath and let them sit for at least 5 minutes.
- Make the Marinade: In another bowl, mix together the soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and water until the sugar dissolves.
- Peel the Eggs: Carefully peel the cooled eggs. Be gentle, as the eggs are soft!
- Marinate the Eggs: Place the peeled eggs in the marinade, cover, and let them soak in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for more flavor.
- Serve: When you’re ready to eat, remove the eggs from the marinade and slice them in half. Place them on top of your ramen or enjoy them as a snack!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 70 | 3% |
| Protein | 6g | 12% |
| Carbohydrates | 2g | 1% |
| Fats | 5g | 8% |
| Sodium | 350mg | 15% |
| Sugar | 1g | 1% |
Tips and Tricks
- For a different flavor, try using shoyu (Japanese soy sauce) instead of regular soy sauce for a richer taste.
- If you like a slight kick, add a splash of chili oil to the marinade for a spicy twist!
- Always remember to cool the eggs in an ice bath to ensure they stop cooking and achieve the perfect soft-boiled center.
- A common mistake is not marinating long enough—give the eggs at least 4 hours for the best flavor!
FAQs
What is Ajitsuke Tamago?
Ajitsuke Tamago is a soy sauce-marinated soft-boiled egg often used as a topping for ramen in Japanese cuisine.
Can I use different types of eggs?
While large chicken eggs are traditional, you can experiment with quail eggs or even duck eggs for unique flavors!
How long should I marinate the eggs?
For the best taste, marinate the eggs for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal to fully absorb the flavors.
Can I make Ajitsuke Tamago ahead of time?
Yes! You can make these eggs up to a week in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
How do I store leftover marinated eggs?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to a week!
What dishes can I use Ajitsuke Tamago in?
Besides ramen, you can use these tasty eggs in sushi, rice bowls, or simply enjoy them as a snack!
Is Ajitsuke Tamago vegetarian-friendly?
No, since it contains eggs, Ajitsuke Tamago is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Can I adjust the marinade’s sweetness?
Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter egg, simply add more sugar or use honey as a substitute.
What should I do if the eggs crack while boiling?
If the eggs crack, it’s best to reduce the heat and simmer gently to minimize further cracking.
Do I need to use mirin?
While mirin is traditional, you can substitute it with a mixture of honey and water if needed.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve learned how to make Ajitsuke Tamago, you can enhance your ramen and impress your friends and family with this delicious addition. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe and make it your own!
