This easy pork chop brine is the secret to juicy, tender meat. Just soak your chops in a simple mix of water, salt, and sugar for a few hours, and you’ll be amazed at the flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Both bone-in and boneless chops work well. Bone-in chops are juicier due to the added flavor from the bone. If you can’t find pork chops, you can also brine pork tenderloin using the same method.
Kosher Salt: This is essential for the brine. If you only have table salt, use half the amount, as it’s much more concentrated. Sea salt is a good alternative too, but stick to the same measurements as kosher salt.
Granulated Sugar: It balances the saltiness. If you prefer, you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor or even honey in the brine. Just remember that honey is liquid, so it might slightly change the water ratio.
Aromatics: Garlic and herbs like rosemary or thyme add great flavor. You can play around with spices, too! Try adding a little crushed red pepper for heat or skip the herbs if you want a simpler brine.
How Do You Get a Great Sear on Pork Chops?
Getting a good sear on your pork chops is crucial for deliciousness. Here are some key tips:
- Make sure to dry the pork chops thoroughly after brining. Moisture will steam the meat instead of searing it.
- Preheat your skillet before adding oil. It should be hot enough that the oil shimmers when added.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. For best results, cook in batches if you’re doing many chops. This keeps the heat steady.
- Once in the pan, don’t move the chops around too much. Let them sit to form that nice, brown crust.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly seared, juicy pork chops every time!
Easy Pork Chop Brine for Juicy, Tender Meat
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brine:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3-4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
- 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns (optional)
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Additional garlic cloves and rosemary for cooking (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of preparation time plus 1 to 4 hours for brining in the refrigerator. After brining, cooking the pork chops takes another 10-12 minutes. So, in total, you can expect to spend around 1 hour and 15 minutes to 4 hours depending on brining time. It’s an easy process that guarantees delicious results!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brine:
In a medium bowl or large measuring cup, dissolve the kosher salt and sugar in 4 cups of water. Stir well until both the salt and sugar are fully dissolved. This is your tasty brine!
2. Add Aromatics:
Add the smashed garlic cloves, fresh herbs (if you are using them), and whole black peppercorns to the brine. This step infuses your pork chops with fantastic flavors.
3. Brine the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a large resealable plastic bag or a non-reactive container. Pour the brine over the chops, ensuring they are fully submerged. Seal the bag or cover the container, and place it in the refrigerator. Brine for 1 to 4 hours, but watch the time to avoid overly salty meat!
4. Remove and Dry:
Once brining is done, remove the pork chops from the brine. Pat them dry very well with paper towels. This is important for achieving a nice, golden-brown sear when cooking!
5. Cook the Pork Chops:
Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottom pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil or butter. If you like, toss in a few extra garlic cloves and sprigs of rosemary for added flavor. Once the pan is hot, add the pork chops.
6. Sear:
Cook the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes per side, turning once, until they have a lovely golden-brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Depending on the thickness of the chops, you might need to adjust the cooking time.
7. Rest the Meat:
Transfer the pork chops to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to settle, making your meat even juicier!
8. Serve:
Your juicy, tender pork chops are now ready to enjoy! Serve them with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Bon appétit!
Enjoy your perfectly brined and pan-seared pork chops packed with flavor from garlic and herbs!
FAQ about Easy Pork Chop Brine
Can I Brine Pork Chops for Longer than 4 Hours?
While it might be tempting to brine for longer, it’s best to stick to 1 to 4 hours. Brining too long can make the pork chops overly salty and change the texture of the meat, making it mushy.
What Can I Use Instead of Kosher Salt?
If you don’t have kosher salt, you can use table salt, but use only half the amount because it’s more concentrated. Sea salt is another good alternative and can be used in equal measure to the kosher salt.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) or cover and warm them on the stovetop, ensuring not to overcook.
Can I Use This Brine for Other Meats?
Absolutely! This brine works well for chicken, turkey, or even beef. Just adjust the brining time based on the thickness and type of meat. For example, chicken breasts can usually brine for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
