This Pork Chop Brine is a simple mixture that adds so much flavor and moisture to your chops. Just some water, salt, and a few spices make a tasty difference!
I can’t believe how juicy my pork chops turn out after using this brine. It’s like they’ve been on a spa day! Give it a try for your next dinner; your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Water: This is the base of your brine. You can use filtered or tap water, but if you have low-sodium broth, that could enhance flavor even more.
Kosher salt: It’s a must for the brine. If you don’t have it, you can use sea salt or table salt, but use less, as they are finer and denser.
Brown sugar: It adds sweetness and depth. If you’re watching your sugar intake, consider using honey or agave nectar, adjusting the amount to taste.
Garlic and shallots: Fresh is best for great flavor. If you don’t have shallots, use an extra clove of garlic or a small onion for sweetness.
Peppercorns: Both black and pink add a nice kick. Feel free to use just black or add other spices like mustard seeds for a twist.
Fresh thyme: It really brightens up the brine. If you can’t find fresh, dried thyme will work; just use a fraction of the amount.
Pork chops: Bone-in chops are preferred for flavor. However, boneless pork chops or even pork loin can be used instead.
How Do I Keep My Pork Chops from Getting Too Salty?
The key to a balanced brine is timing! Brining too long can make the pork overly salty. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with 1 hour for thinner chops (about 1 inch thick); opt for 2 to 4 hours for thicker chops.
- Keep it cool: Always refrigerate while brining.
- After removing from the brine, pat them dry to prevent sogginess. This also helps achieve that nice sear when cooking.
If you find the result too salty next time, just cut back on the salt in your brine.
How to Make Pork Chop Brine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 small shallot, halved
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon pink peppercorns (optional)
- 4-5 sprigs fresh thyme
- 3 bone-in pork chops
How Much Time Will You Need?
This brine takes about 10 minutes to prepare and you’ll need to let the pork chops soak for 1 to 4 hours in the fridge, depending on their thickness. In total, plan on at least 1 hour for brining and up to 6 hours if you prefer a deeper flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brine:
In a large pot or container, pour 4 cups of water. Add 1/4 cup of kosher salt and 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Stir this mixture until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved. You want to make sure the liquid is clear and well-blended.
2. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Next, toss in the smashed garlic cloves, halved shallot, black peppercorns, and pink peppercorns if you’re using them. Also add the fresh thyme sprigs into the mixture. Stir it gently to mix everything together.
3. Brine the Pork Chops:
Carefully place the pork chops into the brine, ensuring they are fully submerged. If needed, you can place a weight or cover them to keep them below the surface of the liquid.
4. Refrigerate:
Cover the container and put it in the fridge. Let the pork chops soak for 1 to 4 hours. If your chops are thicker, you can brine them for up to 6 hours. Just remember, don’t leave them too long to avoid any saltiness!
5. Remove and Dry:
Once brining is done, take the pork chops out of the brine and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important to ensure they sear nicely when cooked.
6. Cook as Desired:
You can grill, pan-sear, or bake the pork chops. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe and delicious eating.
7. Rest and Serve:
Finally, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep the juices locked in, making for a juicy and flavorful meal!
This brining process helps infuse the pork with savory, aromatic flavors from thyme, garlic, and shallots, while keeping the meat tender and juicy during cooking. Enjoy your delicious pork chops!
Can I Use Less Salt in the Brine?
Yes, you can! Adjust the kosher salt to your taste, but keep in mind that reducing the salt may affect the brining effectiveness. Consider starting with less and tasting the chops after cooking to find your preferred flavor balance.
How Long Can I Brine the Pork Chops?
For optimal results, brine the pork chops for 1 to 4 hours. Thicker chops can be brined for up to 6 hours, but be careful not to exceed that to avoid an overly salty result.
Can I Substitute Ingredients in the Brine?
Absolutely! You can replace kosher salt with table salt (use less), brown sugar with honey or agave, and fresh herbs with dried herbs. Just adjust measurements as necessary for strong flavors!
How Do I Store Leftover Brine or Pork Chops?
If you have leftover brine, it’s best to discard it after use, as it’s been in contact with raw meat. Cooked pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; simply reheat gently before serving.
