Brine Your Meat

I recently found a good chicken recipe, but I wanted to make sure it was flavorful.  I found these instructions on thekitchn.com on how to brine chicken and pork.  I'll do this every time now!  It ensures juiciness in just 15-30 minutes.  (Don't brine for more than 1 hour.)

In a large bowl (preferably one with a lid), dissolve together:

• 1/2 cup salt
• 2 quarts (8 cups) really warm water.

Add aromatics as desired.  These can include:

• smashed cloves of garlic                    
• black peppercorns                     
• star anise
• ginger      
• lemon peel    
• cumin seeds

This is enough brine for 6-8 chicken breasts ~ 3 pounds of meat.  Add meat to the brine & soak for 15-30 minutes.  Then gently rinse off the meat and prepare to cook it.  Grilling, Broiling, Pan-searing are all good options for brined cuts.