This simple pork chop brine will make your meat juicy and tender. Just mix salt, sugar, and a few spices in water, and let the chops soak for a while!
I love how easy this brine is! It’s like giving the pork chops a nice warm bath. Trust me, they come out so flavorful that you might want to show them off at dinner! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for flavor and juiciness. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops will work too, but just reduce the cooking time slightly.
Kosher Salt: This salt dissolves easily and helps retain moisture. If you don’t have kosher salt, you can use table salt, but use less since it’s saltier by volume. Aim for about 1/5 of the amount.
Sugar: The brine uses granulated or brown sugar. Brown sugar gives a hint of molasses flavor, but if you need to skip it, you can use honey or a sugar substitute appropriate for cooking.
Herbs: Fresh rosemary or thyme are perfect for flavoring the brine. If you don’t have fresh herbs, feel free to use dried herbs—just halve the amount since dried is more potent.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
Brining pork chops is an effective way to lock in moisture and add flavor. The secret is to let them soak in the brine, which contains salt and sugar that draw moisture into the meat. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix the brine in a large bowl or container, ensuring all salt and sugar dissolve completely.
- Make sure the pork chops are fully submerged. Use a plate if they start to float.
- Cover and refrigerate for anywhere between 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on how juicy you want them. Just don’t exceed 6 hours!
Once brined, rinsing and patting dry helps remove excess salt and ensures a proper sear, leading to a perfect crust during cooking!
Easy Pork Chop Brine for Juicy, Tender Meat
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brine:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 4 cups cold water
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar or brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme
- 2 cups ice cubes (optional, for cooling the brine quickly)
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This brine takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll want to brine the pork chops for at least 30 minutes, but up to 4 hours is best for a juicy result. After that, cooking will take around 10-12 minutes. Overall, you’re looking at about 40 minutes to 4 hours, depending on how long you brine!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Brine:
In a large bowl or container, mix together the cold water, kosher salt, and sugar. Stir this thoroughly until the salt and sugar are fully dissolved in the water. You’re creating a flavorful bath for the pork chops!
2. Add Flavorings:
Next, toss in the smashed garlic, black peppercorns, and your fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme) into the brine mixture. This will give the meat an extra burst of flavor!
3. Submerge the Chops:
Carefully place the pork chops into the brine, ensuring they’re completely submerged. If you notice they want to float, just place a plate on top to keep them underwater. Cover the container and pop it into the fridge.
4. Brine Time:
Let the pork chops sit in the brine for at least 30 minutes, but up to 4 hours is ideal. Just remember not to exceed 6 hours to avoid overly salty meat!
5. Prepare for Cooking:
When you’re ready to cook, take the pork chops out of the brine and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps in getting a nice sear!
6. Heat the Skillet:
Place a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, and add your olive oil or butter. Let it heat up until it’s hot and shimmering.
7. Cook the Chops:
Add the pork chops to the skillet and sear them for about 4-5 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You want the internal temperature to be at least 145°F (63°C).
8. Infuse Extra Flavor:
While they’re cooking, toss in a few whole garlic cloves and a sprig of rosemary into the skillet to give additional flavor to the chops!
9. Rest Before Serving:
Once cooked, let your pork chops rest on a plate for 3-5 minutes. This lets the juices settle, so they stay tender when you cut into them!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful pork chops with your favorite sides. They’re sure to impress your family or guests!
FAQ for Easy Pork Chop Brine
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine, but be sure to reduce the cooking time by a minute or two since they tend to cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Long Can I Brine the Pork Chops?
You can brine the pork chops for anywhere from 30 minutes up to 4 hours for the best results. Just be careful not to exceed 6 hours, as they can become too salty if left in the brine too long.
What Is the Best Way to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
If you have any leftovers, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to keep them moist.
Can I Adjust the Seasonings in the Brine?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme, dill, or even some chili flakes for a kick. Just keep the salt and sugar ratios consistent for the best brining results.
