This Pork Chop Brine is a simple way to make your chops juicy and full of flavor! Just mix salt, sugar, and water, plus any spices you love, and let those chops soak in it.
Honestly, brining takes just a little time but makes a big difference! I can never resist a perfectly juicy pork chop. They just make me happy! 😄
It’s super easy to prepare in advance. Just remember to plan ahead so your pork chops can sit in the brine overnight. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kosher Salt: This type of salt is great for brining because of its larger grains, which dissolve well. If you don’t have kosher salt, table salt works, but use about half the amount since it’s more concentrated.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. Feel free to substitute it with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener, but adjust for sweetness levels!
Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary bring such great flavor. If you only have dried herbs, use about 1 teaspoon of each instead. Just remember dried herbs are more potent than fresh.
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops add flavor and juiciness, but boneless or even pork loin can be used if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Make Sure My Brine Is Effective?
Brining is all about soaking those pork chops to lock in moisture and flavor! Here’s how to nail the process:
- Mix salt and sugar in hot water until fully dissolved—this creates your brine base.
- Add your herbs and spices while the mixture is still warm, allowing them to infuse.
- Cool the brine completely before adding your meat; hot brine can start cooking the pork!
- Let the pork chops soak for at least 2 hours; overnight is even better for maximum flavor.
- Be sure to rinse the chops and pat them dry after brining to prevent overly salty bites.
Follow these steps closely, and you’ll have a wonderfully juicy pork chop every time!
How to Make a Flavorful Pork Chop Brine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary or sage
- 2 bone-in pork chops (about 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This brine recipe takes about 15 minutes of active prep time and at least 2 hours to brine the pork chops, but overnight is even better for full flavor. Plan a little ahead to let those chops soak up all the goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brine Base:
In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of water, kosher salt, and brown sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally until the salt and sugar dissolve completely. Once everything is dissolved, take it off the heat.
2. Add Flavor:
Now it’s time to add the good stuff! Stir in the crushed garlic, black peppercorns, red pepper flakes, and fresh herbs. This will infuse the brine with delicious flavors.
3. Cool It Down:
Pour in the remaining 2 cups of cold water. This will help cool the brine to room temperature, which is what you want before adding the pork chops.
4. Brine the Chops:
Once the brine is cooled, place the pork chops into a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Pour the brine over the chops, making sure they’re fully submerged. If they float, you can weigh them down with a small plate.
5. Chill Out:
Cover the bowl or seal the bag and pop it into the fridge. Let the pork chops brine for at least 2 hours, but for the best flavor, aim for up to 4 hours. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can let them sit overnight!
6. Rinse and Dry:
After brining, remove the pork chops from the liquid. Rinse them under cold water to get rid of excess salt and flavor. Pat them dry with paper towels before cooking to get a nice sear.
7. Cook Away:
Now it’s time to enjoy your perfectly brined pork chops! Grill, sear, or bake them as desired. Whichever way you choose, you’re guaranteed juicy and flavorful results. Enjoy!
Can I Use Table Salt Instead of Kosher Salt?
Yes, you can, but use about half the amount, as table salt is more concentrated and can make the dish overly salty.
How Long Can I Brine the Pork Chops?
The ideal brining time is between 2 to 4 hours. However, for maximum flavor and juiciness, you can brine them overnight if you have time!
Can I Add Other Spices to the Brine?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. You can add spices like mustard seeds, dill, or even citrus peels for a different flavor profile. Just remember to keep the salt and sugar proportions similar!
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Brined Pork Chops?
Grilling, pan-searing, or baking are all excellent methods! Just make sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.
