This easy pork chop brine makes your meat super juicy and tender! With just a few simple ingredients like salt and sugar, your pork chops will be bursting with flavor.
I love how easy it is to whip up this brine. Just mix, soak, and grill or pan-fry! Plus, the kids always ask for seconds—gotta love it when dinner is a hit! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are my favorite for their extra flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chops work, too. Just be mindful of cooking time since they may cook faster.
Kosher Salt: This is ideal for brining because it dissolves easily. Table salt can be used, but use less since it’s finer and saltier. If you’re on a low-sodium diet, you could try a salt substitute or reduce the amount.
Granulated Sugar: The sugar helps balance flavors and promotes browning. Brown sugar can be a nice alternative if you want a hint of molasses flavor. Some folks even use honey or maple syrup, just mix them into the water until dissolved.
Herbs & Spices: I love using fresh rosemary for a fragrant touch. Thyme or sage also pairs well with pork if you don’t have rosemary on hand. You can even add other spices like cumin or smoked paprika for more heat!
How Do You Get Those Pork Chops Extra Juicy?
The key to juicy pork chops is the brining process. Brining helps the meat absorb moisture and flavor. Here’s how to nail it:
- Make sure the salt and sugar fully dissolve in water. This ensures an even brine.
- Don’t brine for longer than 2 hours—oversalting can dry out the meat.
- After brining, drying the chops well helps them sear better, creating that crispy crust.
- When cooking, resist the urge to move the chops around too much. Let them sear for perfect color!
Resting the pork after cooking is also key. It allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite tender and moist.
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
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3-4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 1 tsp whole black peppercorns
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Optional: additional garlic cloves and rosemary sprigs for cooking
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare the brine, plus 30 minutes to 2 hours for brining, and around 10 minutes for cooking. All in all, you can enjoy delicious, juicy pork chops in just under 3 hours, including the brining time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Brine:
In a large bowl or container, mix the cold water, kosher salt, and granulated sugar. Stir until the salt and sugar are fully dissolved. This creates a flavorful brine that will tenderize the meat.
2. Add Flavors:
Add the smashed garlic cloves, rosemary sprigs, and black peppercorns into the brine. This step really infuses flavor into your pork chops!
3. Brine the Pork Chops:
Submerge the pork chops in the brine, ensuring they are completely covered. Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours. Remember, don’t brine longer than 2 hours to avoid over-salting!
4. Prepare for Cooking:
After brining, take the pork chops out of the brine and pat them dry with paper towels. Drying them helps achieve a nice sear during cooking!
5. Heat Up the Pan:
In a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottom pan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. If you like, add a couple of smashed garlic cloves and a rosemary sprig to the pan for added aroma as it heats up!
6. Sear the Pork Chops:
Once the pan is hot, carefully place the pork chops into the pan. Let them cook without moving them for about 4-5 minutes, allowing a golden crust to form. This step is crucial for flavor!
7. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Using tongs, flip the pork chops over and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes. Keep an eye on the internal temperature; it should reach 145°F (63°C) to be safe to eat.
8. Rest and Serve:
Remove the pork chops from the pan and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute for an even juicier bite. Season with freshly ground black pepper if you desire, then serve and enjoy!
This simple brine ensures the pork chops stay juicy and tender, enriched with the delightful flavors of rosemary and garlic. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used, but be aware they may cook faster. Check for doneness earlier, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Long Can I Brine the Pork Chops?
For the best results, brine the pork chops for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours. Brining for longer than 2 hours can lead to oversalting and a mushy texture.
What Can I Do With Leftover Brine?
It’s best not to reuse brine if you’ve marinated raw meat in it, as it can harbor bacteria. If you’re brining vegetables, you can use the brine for that, or simply discard it after use.
How Should I Store Leftover Cooked Pork Chops?
Store any leftover cooked pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them gently in a microwave or on the stove over low heat to avoid drying them out.
Can I Add Other Flavors to the Brine?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding spices like paprika, thyme, or even citrus zest to the brine for a unique flavor twist. Just remember to keep the salt and sugar ratios in balance!
