SALT BRINE FOR PORK CHOPS RECIPES

Steps:

• Prepare the brine: In a nonreactive large bowl or large deep baking dish, combine salt, sugar, bay leaves, coriander, peppercorns and allspice. Stir in 8 cups cold water to dissolve salt and sugar.
• Add pork chops to brine, making sure they are well submerged, and refrigerate. Leave chops in brine for 1 to 2 hours. Remove from brine, pat dry and bring to room temperature. Discard brine.
• Make the dressing for the herb salad: Whisk together lemon juice, zest and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.
• Put 2 large cast-iron skillets over medium-high heat and film each pan lightly with oil. (Alternatively, use a large cast-iron griddle or ridged stovetop grill.) When oil is hot, add chops in one layer without crowding.
• Cook for about 4 minutes, until chops are nicely browned, then turn and cook for about 3 minutes more, until firm to the touch. Transfer to a warm platter.
• Put herb salad leaves in a shallow bowl and season lightly with salt. Toss leaves with half the dressing, just to coat. Place dressed salad on top of pork chops. Drizzle remaining dressing over the top, add shavings of pecorino cheese (if using), and serve.

Steps:

• In a large saucepan, combine salt, sugar and 2 cups water; cook and stir over medium heat until salt and sugar are dissolved. Remove from heat. Add 2 cups ice water to cool brine to room temperature., Place pork chops in a large resealable plastic bag; add cooled brine. Seal bag, pressing out as much air as possible; turn to coat chops. Place in a 13x9-in. baking dish. Refrigerate 8-12 hours., Remove chops from brine; rinse and pat dry. Discard brine. Brush both sides of chops with oil. In a small bowl, mix rub ingredients; rub over pork chops. Let stand at room temperature 30 minutes., Grill chops on an oiled rack, covered, over medium heat 4-6 minutes on each side or until a thermometer reads 145°. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.