Smoky Brined Pork Chops and Mango Salsa

Published on

September 22, 2023

Intro

Pork and fruit is a classic combination, and for good reason. The sweetness and tang of the fruit softens the richness of the meat. Here the chops are brined which tenderizes and flavors pork. This is amplified by the sweet and tart mango salsa.

Pork chop with colorful mango salsa on top.

Prep Time:

20 Minutes + 3-6 Hours Brining Time

Cook Time:

20 Minutes

Servings:

Difficulty Level:

Easy

Ingredients

1 cup Smoky Brining Blend

2 cups boiling water

3 cups ice cubes

3 quarts cold water

4 bone in pork chops

2 mangos, diced

1/2 cup red onion, diced

1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

Zest and Juice of 1 lime

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

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Directions

1. In a large pot bring 2 cups of water to boil. Stir in the Smoky Brining Blend. Stir until salt and sugar has dissolved.

2. Add ice cubes to the brined water and stir until melted. Then stir in 3 quarts of cold water. The water temperature should be 45°F or colder.

3. Place the pork chops into the brined water. Cover and refrigerate for 1-3 hours.

4. Meanwhile, in a bowl combine the mango, red onion, cilantro, lime zest and juice. Stir to combine. Salsa can be made 1 day ahead.

5. Preheat the oven to 400°F.

6. Remove the pork chops from brine and pat dry. Do not rinse!

7. Melt the butter in a cast iron or oven safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops 2-3 minutes per side or until browned. Transfer pan to oven and cook for 5-10 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145ºF.

8. Remove the pork from the pan, place on the cutting surface. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with mango salsa.

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