Grilled Maple-Brined Pork Chops

• MAKE-AHEAD

Ingredients

1. 2 quarts water
2. 1/2 cup kosher salt
3. 1/2 cup light brown sugar
4. 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
5. 1/4 cup cider vinegar
6. 1 whole clove
7. 3 bay leaves
8. 4 whole allspice berries
9. 1 tablespoon yellow mustard seeds
10. 4 fresh sage leaves
11. 1 tablespoon coarsely ground pepper
12. 6 double-cut, bone-in pork chops (about 1 pound each)
13. Olive oil, for brushing

1. In a large pot, combine the water, salt, brown sugar, maple syrup, vinegar, clove, bay leaves, allspice berries, mustard seeds, sage and pepper. Bring to a boil and remove from the heat. Let the brine cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for 1 hour. Add the pork chops to the brine and refrigerate for 7 to 8 hours, turning the chops after 4 hours. Remove the pork chops from the brine and pat dry.
2. Light a grill. Lightly brush both sides of the chops with olive oil and grill over a medium-hot fire, for 18 minutes per side, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the thickest part of the meat registers 155°. Transfer to plates and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.