Savory Brined Pork Chops

Marinating pork chops in a subtly garlicky brine of salt, water, vinegar, and peppercorns yields extra tender, savory results in this relatively hands-off recipe.

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 25 mins
• Calories: 506 Calories

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 cup boiling water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard
• 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 cubes ice cubes
• 2 (8 ounce) boneless pork chops
• 0.5 cup olive oil
• 0.75 cup kosher salt
• 0.25 teaspoon ground red chile pepper

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Crack about 1/2 of the peppercorns. Add peppercorns, salt, sugar, garlic, and mustard to boiling water. Mix thoroughly until all dry ingredients are dissolved. Slowly add vinegar, olive oil, and lemon juice until blended. Pour mixture into a shallow glass or ceramic dish.

Step 2

Add ice if the brine is hotter thank lukewarm. Add pork chops, cover, and marinate at room temperature for 2 hours, turning occasionally.

Step 3

Heat olive oil, garlic, pepper, and chile powder in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Remove pork chops from the brine and add to the pan. Cook for 2 minutes per side. Flip chops, reduce heat to a simmer, and cover. Cook, checking for doneness every 5 minutes, until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads 160 degrees F (71 degrees C), 10 to 15 minutes more.