Molasses Brined Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chop game with this irresistible Molasses Brined Pork Chops recipe, where tender, flavorful meat takes center stage. The secret lies in a rich brine made with unsulfured molasses, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar, infused with aromatic garlic, thyme, and black peppercorns. Perfectly balanced with sweet and savory notes, the brining process not only deepens the flavor but ensures juicy, succulent pork chops every time. After resting in the brine, the chops are seared to golden perfection in a hot skillet, locking in all their natural goodness. With minimal prep time and a straightforward cooking method, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Pair these molasses-brined pork chops with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for an unforgettable meal bursting with bold, comforting flavors.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pieces Pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
- 6 cups Water
- 0.5 cups Unsulfured molasses
- 0.25 cups Kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons Brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Apple cider vinegar
- 3 cloves Crushed garlic cloves
- 4 sprigs Fresh thyme sprigs
- 1 teaspoon Black peppercorns
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon Ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Salt (for seasoning)
Instructions
In a large pot, combine water, molasses, kosher salt, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic cloves, fresh thyme sprigs, and black peppercorns. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the salt and sugar dissolve completely. Remove from heat and let the brine cool to room temperature.
Place the pork chops in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the cooled brine over the chops, ensuring they are completely submerged. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
Remove the pork chops from the brine and pat them dry with paper towels. Discard the brine. Let the pork chops rest at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes while you preheat your pan.
In a large skillet or grill pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Season the pork chops with ground black pepper and a pinch of salt on both sides.
Sear the pork chops in the skillet for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they develop a deep golden crust. Reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chops, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Remove the pork chops from the heat and let them rest on a plate tented with aluminum foil for 5 minutes to retain their juices.
Serve the molasses-brined pork chops with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1716 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 82.3 g | 106% | |
| Saturated Fat | 23.8 g | 119% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 16.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 300 mg | 100% | |
| Sodium | 29430 mg | 1280% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 115.1 g | 42% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.9 g | 7% | |
| Total Sugars | 101.9 g | ||
| Protein | 113.4 g | 227% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 482 mg | 37% | |
| Iron | 11.1 mg | 62% | |
| Potassium | 3368 mg | 72% | |
*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.
