Melissa Kelly, the chef and owner of Primo in Rockland, Maine, raises her own Tamworth pigs. She uses a sweet and tangy maple-syrup and cider-vinegar brine to enhance the natural juiciness of the meat. Plus: More Pork Recipes and Tips
How to Make It
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.
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.
Make Ahead
Serve With
Polenta and braised greens.