Ramen eggs, also known as Ajitsuke Tamago, are a popular topping for many delicious Japanese dishes, including ramen bowls. These eggs are soft-boiled and marinated in a flavorful soy-based sauce, resulting in a creamy and savory treat. While traditionally, Ramen eggs are made on the stovetop, using an air fryer can simplify the process and still yield fantastic results. In this quick and easy guide, we will walk you through the steps to make Ramen eggs in an air fryer.
Prepping the Eggs
The first step in making Ramen eggs is to select fresh and high-quality eggs. It is recommended to use eggs at room temperature for even cooking. Start by placing the desired number of eggs in a single layer within the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the eggs to ensure they cook evenly.
Cooking the Eggs
Once the eggs are in the air fryer basket, preheat the air fryer to 250°F (120°C). Once preheated, carefully place the basket back into the air fryer and set the timer for 13-15 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. For a slightly runny yolk, aim for around 13 minutes, while a firmer yolk will require closer to 15 minutes.
During the cooking process, the air fryer will circulate hot air around the eggs, resulting in a gentle and even cooking process. This makes the air fryer an ideal tool for achieving consistent results every time.
Preparing the Marinade
While the eggs are cooking in the air fryer, it’s time to prepare the flavorful marinade that will give the Ramen eggs their delicious taste. In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1/4 cup of mirin (a sweet rice wine), 1/4 cup of water, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
Adding Extra Flavor
For those who enjoy an extra kick of flavor, feel free to incorporate additional ingredients into the marinade. Some popular options include a clove of crushed garlic, a piece of ginger, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes. Adjust the marinade according to your preferences, but remember to strain the mixture before using it.
Marinating the Eggs
Once the eggs have finished cooking in the air fryer, it’s time to transfer them to a bowl of ice water. This step is essential as it helps stop the cooking process and makes peeling the eggs easier. Allow the eggs to cool in the ice water for around 5 minutes.
After the eggs have cooled, gently tap them all over on a hard surface to create small cracks all around. Place the cracked eggs back into the bowl of ice water for an additional 5 minutes. This step will allow the marinade to penetrate the eggs and create that sought-after marbled appearance.
Adding the Eggs to the Marinade
After the marinating mixture has cooled, carefully peel the eggs and place them in a shallow dish or container. Pour the marinade over the eggs until they are completely submerged. For optimal flavor, cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
The longer the eggs marinate, the more intense the flavor will be. Some prefer to marinate the eggs for up to 24 hours to achieve a bolder taste.
Serving and Enjoying
Once the Ramen eggs have marinated for the desired period, they are ready to be enjoyed! Remove the eggs from the marinade, and you will notice their beautifully marbled appearance. Cut the eggs in half and nestle them on top of a steaming bowl of ramen noodles or any other dish that could use a touch of richness and flavor.
Experiment and Explore
While Ramen eggs are a classic topping for ramen bowls, don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with other dishes. These eggs can elevate a simple bowl of rice, add flair to salads, or become a luxurious topping for a beef stir-fry. The possibilities are endless!
In Conclusion
Making Ramen eggs in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to achieve the perfect soft-boiled egg with a deliciously rich and savory flavor. By following this guide, you’ll be able to enjoy these popular Japanese treats in the comfort of your own home. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and get ready to savor the delectable taste of Ramen eggs.