BRINE-CURED PORK CHOPS

Brine-Cured Pork Chops image

Provided by Molly O'Neill

Time 30m

Yield 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 12

1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup kosher salt
10 black peppercorns
5 juniper berries
5 bay leaves
1/8 cup fennel seeds
1 cup mixed fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage, oregano)
Peel of 1 orange
1 quart boiling water
3 quarts cold water
12 center-cut pork chops
2 tablespoons virgin olive oil

Steps:

Combine all the ingredients except the water, pork chops and olive oil in a large glass, ceramic or plastic container. Add the boiling water and stir to completely dissolve the sugar and salt. Stir in the cold water to cool the brine.
Lay the chops out in 1 layer in a large nonreactive pan and completely cover them with the brine. If a chop floats to the surface, weigh it down with a plate. Cover and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours, depending on how much flavor you want the meat to acquire. (If the chops must be stacked, change their positions in the brine often.)
Heat a grill or broiler. Drain the pork chops, discarding the brine, and pat dry with paper towels. Brush the chops with the oil and grill or broil for 5 to 6 minutes per side. Put the chops on a rack in a pan to catch the drippings and loosely cover with foil. Set aside in a warm place for 6 to 8 minutes and serve.