This easy pork chop brine is a game changer! Just mix salt, sugar, and a few spices in water, and let the chops soak. The result? Juicy, tender meat that bursts with flavor!
You’ll love how simple it is to prepare. I usually whip up the brine while daydreaming about dinner! Trust me, your pork chops will be the stars of the meal! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Water: This acts as the base for your brine. It’s essential, but you can also use broth or stock for added flavor. Vegetable or chicken broth works well if you want a twist!
Kosher salt: This is key for brining, helping the meat stay moist. If you don’t have kosher salt, sea salt or table salt can work, but use less—about 3 tablespoons since they’re finer and saltier!
Brown sugar: This adds a touch of sweetness and helps with caramelization. If you prefer, honey or maple syrup are good substitutes, but adjust the liquid in your brine slightly.
Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme are fantastic, but feel free to swap in dried herbs like oregano or basil. Just remember, dried herbs are more potent, so use about a third of the amount.
How Do I Sear Pork Chops to Keep Them Juicy?
Searing is crucial for creating a delightful crust while sealing in juices. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Preheat your skillet well—aim for medium-high heat to get that lovely browning.
- Make sure your pork chops are dry. Pat them with paper towels; moisture can inhibit browning.
- Add oil or butter, and once it’s shimmering, add the chops. Don’t overcrowd the pan— that can lower the temperature and cause them to steam.
- Cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes before flipping. If they stick, they’re not ready to turn!
- For thickness, reduce heat and cover the pan if needed to finish cooking without burning the crust.
Following these tips will give you beautifully seared, juicy pork chops every time!
Easy Pork Chop Brine for Juicy, Tender Meat
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for cooking)
- Additional garlic cloves (for cooking, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare the brine, plus 1 to 4 hours for brining the pork chops. Cooking will take another 10 to 15 minutes. Overall, plan for around 1 hour and 30 minutes, including soaking and cooking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brine:
In a medium saucepan, combine the water, kosher salt, brown sugar, smashed garlic, black peppercorns, and fresh rosemary or thyme. Heat over medium heat while stirring until the salt and sugar fully dissolve. Once dissolved, remove the saucepan from heat and allow the brine to cool to room temperature. If you’re in a hurry, you can refrigerate the brine to cool it faster!
2. Brine the Pork Chops:
Place the bone-in pork chops into a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the cooled brine over the chops, ensuring they are completely submerged in the liquid. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but not longer than 4 to 6 hours to prevent the pork from becoming too salty.
3. Remove and Dry:
After brining, take the pork chops out of the brine and discard the brine. Pat the chops thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
4. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat a cast-iron skillet or a heavy pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil or butter. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear the chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. If you want extra flavor, you can add a few whole garlic cloves to the pan while cooking!
5. Finish Cooking:
If your pork chops are thicker, after searing, lower the heat to medium-low and continue to cook for an additional 2-4 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This ensures perfectly cooked, juicy meat.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and allow them to rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This rest time is essential as it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your pork tender and juicy. Serve them up with your favorite sides, and enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Pork Chop Brine Recipe
Can I Use Different Types of Meat for This Brine?
Absolutely! This brine works well for chicken breasts, turkey, or even some cuts of beef. Just adjust the brining time accordingly—poultry generally needs less time, around 1-3 hours, while beef can handle a longer soak depending on the cut.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can use white sugar with a splash of molasses, honey, or maple syrup as a substitute. Just remember to adjust the liquid in your brine slightly if you’re using a liquid sweetener.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover cooked pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To keep them juicy, you can reheat them gently in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Can I Make the Brine Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the brine up to a week in advance! Just store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to use it, make sure to bring it back to room temperature before brining the pork chops.
