Pan Seared Pork Chops With Warm Cajun Grain Salad Recipes

Steps:

• Brine: In a medium saucepan, bring water, salt, and maple sugar to a boil over high heat. Stir until dissolved, 5 minutes. Turn off heat and add ice to the concentrated brine, diluting and quickly chilling it so you can use it right away. (Alternately, add 3 cups cold water to the concentrated brine and chill in the refrigerator at least 1 hour before using.)
• Pork Chops: Three hours before you plan to cook the pork chops, place them in a gallon-size zip-top bag set in a bowl (for easy pouring and clean-up), then pour in the brine, making sure the chops are submerged. Seal, and chill in the refrigerator 2 hours.
• Remove pork chops from bag and discard brine. Dry chops well with paper towels. Allow meat 1 hour to come to room temperature (this will ensure even cooking). Season each chop on both sides with salt and pepper.
• Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Place a rimmed baking sheet in the oven. Meanwhile, heat a skillet over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon oil and heat until rippling but not smoking, 2 minutes. Sear pork chops, 1 at a time, pressing the meat down with a heavy plate or bowl to get an even, golden sear on the bottom, 1-2 minutes per side. Repeat with remaining oil and pork chops. Finish the chops by placing back in the pan, 2 at a time (for a 9-inch skillet). Turn off heat and add 3 tablespoons butter and a sprig of thyme. Tilt the pan and, using a long-handled spoon, baste the chops with the butter. Repeat with remaining chops and butter.
• Finish by placing all of the pork chops on the preheated baking sheet and roasting in the oven 3-5 minutes. Chops will be done when they're springy to the touch and the thickest part, near the bone, reaches 120 degrees F.
• Assembly: Transfer chops to a bed of thyme and tent lightly with foil to rest, 5-7 minutes. Remove tent, discard thyme, and serve.