Gyeran Jjim
Korean Steamed Egg
A light, fluffy, and savory Korean steamed egg custard, often served as a comforting side dish. This recipe uses a traditional ttukbaegi (earthenware pot) for even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 Eggs(Large eggs, at room temperature for best results.)
- 1 cup Anchovy broth or water(Anchovy broth (dashima-yuksu) provides more depth of flavor. If using water, consider adding a pinch of MSG for umami.)
- 1-2 stalks Scallions(Thinly sliced, green parts primarily, for garnish.)
- 1/2 tsp Salt(Or to taste. Adjust based on the saltiness of your broth.)
- 1 tsp Sesame oil(For drizzling as a finishing touch.)
- pinch Optional: Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)(For a hint of spice.)
- pinch Optional: Toasted sesame seeds(For garnish.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the egg mixture: In a medium bowl, crack the eggs. Add the anchovy broth (or water) and salt. Whisk vigorously until the yolks and whites are completely combined and the mixture is frothy. Aim for a smooth, homogenous liquid with no streaks of white or yolk visible. This should take about 3 minutes.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 2
Strain the mixture (optional but recommended): For an extra silky smooth texture, pour the egg mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another bowl or directly into your cooking vessel. This removes any chalazae (egg white strands) and ensures a more delicate custard.
⏱️ 1 minute - 3
Transfer to cooking vessel: Pour the strained egg mixture into a ttukbaegi (Korean earthenware pot) or a small, oven-safe saucepan. If using a ttukbaegi, ensure it's placed on a heat-resistant mat or trivet.
⏱️ 1 minute - 4
Cook the gyeran jjim: Place the ttukbaegi over medium-low heat on the stovetop. Cover with a lid (a glass lid is ideal so you can monitor progress). Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the egg mixture has puffed up significantly, is mostly set, and the surface appears cooked through but still moist. You should see gentle bubbles forming around the edges. Avoid high heat, which can cause it to curdle or burn.
⏱️ 15-20 minutes - 5
Garnish and serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the ttukbaegi from the heat. Sprinkle the thinly sliced scallions over the top. Drizzle with sesame oil. Add a pinch of gochugaru and toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For an ultra-smooth texture, strain the egg mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before cooking.
- ✓Cooking over low heat is crucial to prevent the eggs from curdling or becoming rubbery. Patience yields a delicate custard.
- ✓A ttukbaegi (Korean earthenware pot) is traditional and helps distribute heat evenly, but a small, oven-safe saucepan can also be used.
- ✓The gyeran jjim will puff up considerably during cooking; ensure your pot is not filled more than two-thirds full.
- ✓This dish is a beloved and versatile Korean side dish, perfect for accompanying any meal.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add finely chopped vegetables like carrots, onions, or zucchini to the egg mixture before cooking.
- Include small, cooked shrimp or finely chopped seafood for added protein and flavor.
- Stir in a teaspoon of kimchi juice for a spicy, tangy twist.