Brining Pork Chops

Ingredients

2 quarts water, divided

1/2 cup salt

3 tablespoons sugar 

1 tablespoon peppercorns (optional)

2 cloves garlic, crushed (optional)

Bay leaf (optional) 

Fresh or dried thyme (optional)

Preparation

Combine 1 quart of water with other ingredients in a large pot; bring to simmer. Remove from heat when salt and sugar dissolve. Add 1 quart cold water to bring brine to room temperature. Add pork chops, cover and refrigerate for 2-4 hours. Cook as desired.