FOOD NEWS
You Should Really Start Brining Your Pork Chops In Maple Syrup
BY KASHMIR BRUMMEL
While brining pork chops in a saltwater solution makes them tender and juicy, adding maple syrup in the mix further adds a heady sweetness and helps meat caramelize during cooking.
Make this brine with ¼ cup kosher salt dissolved in 1 quart of water, followed by ¼ cup of maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of cracked black pepper, and a smashed clove of garlic.
Enrich the flavor even more by adding extra maple syrup, or aromatics like allspice, mustard seeds, or cinnamon. Just remember to maintain the ratio of water to salt.
For the best flavor, brine the meat in the cold liquid for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 4-6 hours. Thicker pork chops may need longer, but it shouldn't be more than 12 hours.
Any longer than 12 hours and your meat may turn overly salty and mushy. Next, remove the chops from the brine and pat them dry to remove excess liquid so you achieve a good sear.