Apple Brine

Brining is a great way to make a lean cut of pork juicier. The sugar in the brine caramelizes on the surface of the pork when grilled. Yummy! Great grilled as is, or use with Apple Brined Pork Chops W/ Sausage and Cornbread Stuffing. Cooking time is marinating time. From Dinosaur Bar B Q.

• Ready In: 8 hrs 10 mins
• Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

• 1  quart water
• 1  quart  apple juice
• 1⁄2 cup kosher salt
• 1  cup maple syrup
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons thyme
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons black peppercorns
• 3  bay leaves
• 3  garlic cloves, crushed
• 1  jalapeno pepper, sliced in half and seeded
• 2  tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Directions

1. Dump all the ingredients into a large saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat. Boil for 15 minutes. Strain the brine into a bowl, cool to room temperature, and then chill completely in the fridge before using.
2. Add chops to the brine and let them marinate in the refrigerator for 8 to 12 hours. Pull them out and dry them off before grilling, or using in a recipe.
3. Makes enough for 4-6 pounds of pork.