Go Back
Perfectly marinated ramen eggs (ajitama) with a gooey yolk

Classic Ramen Eggs (Ajitama)

Classic Ramen Eggs, also known as Ajitama, are delicious marinated soft-boiled eggs with jammy yolks, perfect for topping ramen or enjoying as a snack.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 12 hours
Servings 6 eggs
Calories 70 kcal

Equipment

  • Small saucepan
  • Medium pot
  • Slotted spoon
  • Sealable container or zip-top bag

Ingredients
  

Main

  • 6 Large Eggs
  • 1/2 cup Soy Sauce
  • 1/4 cup Mirin
  • 2 tablespoons Sake optional
  • 1/2 cup Water for marinade
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar
  • Ice for ice bath

Instructions
 

The Marinade

  • In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake (optional), 1/2 cup water, and granulated sugar. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring until sugar dissolves, then cool completely.

Cooking the Eggs

  • Bring a medium pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully lower room temperature eggs into the boiling water and cook for exactly 6 minutes and 30 seconds for a jammy yolk.
  • Immediately transfer the cooked eggs to a bowl of ice water and let them sit for at least 5 minutes.
  • Gently tap the wider end of each egg to crack it, submerge it back in the ice water, and peel carefully.

Marinating & Chilling

  • Place peeled eggs in a sealable container or zip-top bag. Pour the cooled marinade over, ensuring eggs are fully submerged, rotating as needed.
  • Refrigerate and marinate for at least 6 hours, ideally 12-24 hours for maximum flavor, and up to 2 days.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature eggs for easier peeling and more consistent cooking. Adjust marinating time to your preference—longer marination yields deeper flavor.