Combine all the ingredients of the brine solution, in a large bowl. Whisk the solution until all of the salt dissolves. Using a glass bowl helps to you see whether or not the salt dissolves. Another way to check is to use a spoon and scoop up the brine from the bottom. There should be no salt in the spoon.
Place the meat in a zip-top bag large enough to hold whatever it is you are brining. Pour the brine solution over the meat. Make sure the meat is submerged completely. If you do not have enough to cover the meat, then make another batch.
Seal the bag squeezing as much air out of the bag as possible. Place the bag inside a bowl (to ensure no messy leaks inside the refrigerator).
Refrigerate and brine for 1 hour per pound of meat.
Notes
Three important factors to consider when brining meat:
Time - a general rule of thumb is to brine 1 hour per pound of meat. But there are exceptions to the rule. Thin cuts of meat such as pork chops and chicken pieces may need only about 30 minutes to an hour of brine time, while a whole turkey can brine for 6 to 12 hours. Some recipes can go as long as 24 to 48 hours. It’s best to follow your recipe and go with the lowest amount of time. If the meat isn’t salty enough you can always adjust the recipe the next time you use it.
Ratio - Any brine should use a basic ratio of salt and water. Typically a brine is 4 tablespoons of salt per 1 quart (4 cups) of water or 1 cup of salt per gallon of water.
Meat - It’s VERY IMPORTANT to check the label on any meat you are considering brining. Some meats come plumped and injected with a salt solution. If you brine a piece of meat that has already been brined, chances are it’s going to be too salty to eat after all is said and done.
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