Maple Brined Pork
Elevate dinner time with this irresistible Maple Brined Pork recipe, where tender, juicy pork chops are infused with sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors. The secret lies in the maple brine—a luxurious blend of pure maple syrup, kosher salt, brown sugar, black peppercorns, garlic, and fresh rosemary—that deeply enhances the pork's natural flavor while locking in moisture. After a chill in the brine, the chops are seared to golden perfection in a skillet, ensuring a caramelized crust with every bite. Perfectly balanced and effortlessly impressive, this dish is ideal for cozy family dinners or special gatherings. Pair it with roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a meal that's as comforting as it is unforgettable. Key terms: maple brined pork, juicy pork chops, skillet seared pork, savory brine recipe, dinner idea.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pieces pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
- 4 cups water
- 0.5 cups pure maple syrup
- 0.25 cups kosher salt
- 0.25 cups brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 cups ice cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
In a large saucepan, combine 2 cups of water, maple syrup, kosher salt, brown sugar, black peppercorns, minced garlic, and rosemary sprigs.
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the salt and sugar dissolve completely. Do not let it come to a boil.
Remove from heat and add 2 cups of ice cubes to cool the brine completely. Ensure the brine is at room temperature or colder before using.
Place the pork chops in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow container. Pour the cooled brine over the pork, ensuring all pieces are submerged.
Seal the bag or cover the container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
When ready to cook, remove the pork chops from the brine and pat them dry with paper towels. Discard the brine.
Season the chops lightly with ground black pepper.
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops to the skillet.
Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side, until a golden-brown crust forms.
Lower the heat to medium and continue cooking until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C), about 3-5 more minutes depending on thickness.
Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1745 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 82.4 g | 106% | |
| Saturated Fat | 23.9 g | 119% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 16.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 300 mg | 100% | |
| Sodium | 27179 mg | 1182% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 123.6 g | 45% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.7 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 107.3 g | ||
| Protein | 113.4 g | 227% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 301 mg | 23% | |
| Iron | 6.7 mg | 37% | |
| Potassium | 1891 mg | 40% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
