Pork Chop Brine (Chef Tried & True)

Step 1

In a small sauce pan combine the salt, brown sugar and 1 cup water. (If using any other flavoring ingredients add them as well). Bring to simmer, remove from heat and stir to make sure the salt and sugar dissolve.

Step 2

In a large, non-reactive container add two heaping cups of ice cubes and 1 cup of cold water. (This works out to the remaining 3 water cups). Pour the hot, concentrated brine mixture you prepared in the container with the ice water. Stir and allow to cool down completely (should happen quite fast). Add the pork chops to the solution, cover and refrigerate. Brine as needed, see time suggestions below.

Step 3

Remove the pork chops from the brine, pat them dry with paper towel and if you have a few minutes allow them to further air dry. Never rinse them with water. Discard the brine. Season the dry pork chops with your choice of seasoning, use very little salt as they have absorbed salt from the brine. Cook as your recipe directs.