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Entering the world of family traditions, the classic Korean steamed egg, or Gyeran Jjim, is a beloved favorite in our home. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a dish that brings smiles to my kids’ faces and fills our kitchen with the comforting aroma of homemade goodness.
With its smooth texture and delightful flavors, Gyeran Jjim has become a symbol of warmth and satisfaction. Join me as we explore the heart of this family favorite, adding our unique touches to create a delicious journey that passes down through the generations.
What Is Korean Steamed Egg?
Korean steamed egg, often referred to as Gyeran Jjim, is a beloved dish that’s as comforting as it is simple. The cooking process begins with whisking 6 large eggs with seasonings and 1 cup of water or broth. Then, the egg mixture is poured into a preheated stone bowl and placed over a pot of boiling water. As the heat to medium is maintained, the steaming process gently cooks the eggs, resulting in a custard-like consistency that’s both light and savory.
What sets this dish apart is its unique texture and the attention to detail required to prevent the eggs from burning, ensuring a smooth and delightful eating experience. Known for its resemblance to molten lava, Korean volcano eggs are a version of this dish that includes additional ingredients to create a more dramatic presentation, often surprising and delighting those who try it for the first time.
Why You’ll Love Korean Steamed Egg Recipe
This Korean steamed egg recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick and nutritious meal. With just 10 minutes of preparation, you can transform simple ingredients into a dish bursting with flavor. The eggs are steamed in a savory chicken stock which is elevated with just 1 tsp of soy sauce, creating a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Perfect for a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend brunch, this recipe is versatile enough to be a hit with the entire family. Garnish with green onions to add a pop of color and flavor, making each bite as visually appealing as it is delicious. You’ll love how this Korean steamed egg fits seamlessly into your cooking repertoire.

Tools Required
- Whisk
- Earthenware bowl
- Steamer
Ingredients
- Eggs
- Salt
- Broth
- Sesame oil
- Green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Pepper
Incorporate the rich traditions of Korean cuisine with ingredients that complement each other beautifully. The anchovy broth brings a depth of flavor to the eggs, while a teaspoon of sesame oil adds a nutty flavor that compliments the eggs exquisitely. Finely chopped carrots can be added for a touch of sweetness and color.
Cooking Instructions
Begin by whisking the eggs well to ensure a smooth texture. Heat the broth in the stone bowl, then pour the egg mixture in, being careful not to let the eggs cook too quickly. Heat and cover, allowing the eggs to steam gently, infusing them with the rich flavors of the broth.
Once the eggs have set, cook for 2 more minutes to ensure they’re fully cooked through. Garnish with green onions for a burst of freshness and serve immediately. Enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors in this beloved Korean dish.
Gather the Ingredients
Assemble the key elements that embody the essence of Korean cuisine. Prepare 1 cup of anchovy broth for its savory base, and measure out a teaspoon of sesame oil to give the eggs their distinctive nutty flavor. Finely chopped carrots add texture and sweetness, while fermented salted shrimp can be included to impart a unique flavor to the eggs. Vegetable broth is also an excellent alternative for a lighter taste.
Whisk the Eggs
With a firm whisk in hand, beat the eggs until they’re frothy and well combined. This crucial step ensures your Korean steamed eggs will have a smooth and even texture. Take your time with this process, as it sets the foundation for a perfect steamed egg dish.
Steam the Eggs
Once the egg mixture is ready, carefully pour it into the preheated stone bowl. Place the bowl in your steamer and adjust the heat to medium. The gentle steam will coax the eggs into a tender, custard-like consistency that’s truly irresistible.
Check Doneness
Keep a close eye on the steaming eggs, checking for doneness by gently probing with a spoon. The eggs should be just set, with a slight jiggle to indicate they’re ready to be removed from the heat. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, so timing is key.
Garnish and Serve
The final touch to your Korean steamed eggs is to garnish with green onions, adding a fresh, crisp contrast to the soft eggs. Serve immediately while the dish is hot and the texture is at its silkiest. Your guests will be delighted with the elegance and simplicity of this traditional comfort food.
How to Cook a Korean Steamed Egg Without An Earthenware Bowl?
Not everyone has an earthenware bowl on hand, but that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying this delicious Korean dish. Instead, find a heatproof bowl that can fit inside your steamer. The key to achieving the smoother and silkier texture of eggs cooked in an earthenware bowl is to beat the eggs thoroughly before steaming them.
Once you’ve beaten the eggs, pour them into your heatproof bowl, and make sure to cover it tightly. Steam for about 10 minutes, or until the eggs are just set. This method ensures that even without the traditional earthenware, your Korean steamed egg will still be a delightful egg side dish to any meal.
Drizzle with toasted sesame oil just before serving to mimic the taste and aroma that an earthenware bowl might impart. This slight adjustment will add a hint of authenticity to your egg in Korean style, even when adapting the Korean volcano steamed recipe to your kitchen’s capabilities.

How to Keep Eggs from Deflating?
Achieving the perfect fluffy texture in Korean steamed eggs, or Gyeran Jjim, is an art that requires a careful touch. To ensure your eggs stay wonderfully inflated and silky-smooth, follow these simple tips:
- Gentle Steaming: During the final 2-3 minutes of steaming, keep a close eye on the eggs. Overcooking can lead to deflation, resulting in a loss of that coveted fluffiness. Once the eggs are set, promptly remove them from the heat source.
- Proper Straining: Before cooking, whisk the eggs vigorously and strain the mixture to eliminate any remaining lumps. This step guarantees a uniform texture and aids in maintaining the structure of the steamed eggs.
- Mindful Mixing: When combining the eggs with broth or anchovy stock, ensure the yolks and whites are well integrated. This meticulous mixing contributes to the overall stability and resilience of the steamed eggs.
- Use of Traditional Vessels: Opt for a Korean earthenware pot, a traditional vessel that evenly retains heat. The uniform heat distribution aids in gentle steaming, reducing the risk of abrupt temperature changes that might cause deflation.
- Timely Checks: Periodically check the eggs while they are steaming to gauge their doneness. Once the eggs have set, it’s crucial to remove them promptly to preserve their fluffy consistency.
By incorporating these tips into your cooking process, you’ll master the art of keeping Korean steamed eggs delightfully inflated, ensuring each bite retains the desired velvety texture.
How to Serve Korean Steamed Eggs?
Korean steamed eggs are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. To enhance the dining experience, consider serving them with a variety of side dishes. These accompaniments can add different textures and flavors to complement the soft and savory eggs.
- Spicy cucumber salad
- Grilled meats
- Pickled radish
- Seaweed salad
- Stir-fried vegetables
If you’re looking for ingredients, many items can be found at Korean grocery stores, where you can also discover new side dishes to pair with your steamed eggs. Experiment with side dishes to find your favorite combination, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and authentic.
Variations in the Recipe
The basic Korean steamed egg recipe is a canvas for creativity. By adding different ingredients, you can tailor the dish to suit your taste buds or to use what you have in your pantry.
- Seafood like shrimp or scallops for a luxurious twist
- Mushrooms for an earthy flavor
- Chopped bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness
- Shredded cheese for a creamy, indulgent version
- Chili flakes or hot sauce for those who prefer a kick
These variations offer endless possibilities to customize your steamed eggs. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, cheesy, or packed with veggies, there’s a version of this Korean classic just waiting to be discovered.

How to Store Korean Steamed Eggs?
Storing Leftovers:
- Allow Korean steamed eggs to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container to prevent condensation and maintain texture.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat, use a microwave or steam until thoroughly warm.
Shopping Tips:
- Korean grocery stores may not have pre-packaged steamed eggs due to their best-enjoyed-fresh nature.
- If you have leftovers or made a large batch, proper storage is crucial.
Storage Tips:
- Keep steamed eggs separate from strongly flavored foods to avoid flavor transfer.
- Follow these simple steps for a delightful treat even on the following days.
Tips for the Best Korean Steamed Eggs
- Combine 4 large eggs with chicken broth or anchovy stock for creamy Korean steamed eggs.
- Ensure thorough mixing of yolks and whites for a uniform texture.
- Whisk the eggs vigorously and strain the mixture to remove any lumps for a silky-smooth egg custard.
- Use a Korean earthenware pot for traditional cooking; cover it with a bowl or lid to aid even heat retention during steaming.
- Steam the egg mixture for approximately 4 minutes, checking for set consistency.
- Optionally, add chopped green onions, bell peppers, or toasted sesame seeds before cooking.
- Be cautious during the final 2-3 minutes to prevent overcooking, as overcooked eggs may deflate.
- Garnish the steamed eggs with additional chopped green onions and a sprinkle of kosher salt or soybean paste stew for enhanced flavor.
- Serve the steamed eggs alongside Korean rice, dumplings, or fried rice for a complete meal.
- In Korean BBQ restaurants, pair steamed eggs with grilled meats to provide a soft texture contrast.
- For a traditional touch, consider elevating the dish with ingredients like silken tofu, oil, and sesame seeds.
Wrap-Up!
Korean steamed eggs are a versatile dish that can effortlessly fit into any meal. Whether you’re savoring them as part of Korean side dishes or incorporating them with soups and stews, their delicate texture and rich taste make them an instant favorite. They are simple enough for a quick weekday breakfast but also hold their own on a festive table spread.
Remember that the success of this dish lies in the details—from the quality of ingredients to the cooking techniques employed. When done right, Korean steamed eggs can be a comforting and nutritious addition to your culinary repertoire, adding a touch of Korean tradition to your dining experience. Enjoy the simplicity and savor every bite!

Hey there, I’m Emily—an entrepreneur skilled in navigating the challenges of a start-up while managing my family life. My journey into the world of quick, nutritious recipes stemmed out of the necessity to balance work and family. Let me be your guide as I share the practical keys to creating fast, delicious meals, ensuring health is never compromised in the rush of daily life.