Grilled and Maple-Brined Pork Chops

For the maple brine, in a medium pot, combine the Water (6 cups), Kosher Salt (1/4 cup), Grade B Maple Syrup (1/4 cup), Granulated Sugar (2 Tbsp), Dried Thyme (2 Tbsp), Black Peppercorns (1 Tbsp), Bay Leaves (2), and Garlic (1 head). Bring to a boil.

Remove from the heat and let steep for 30 minutes; strain. Let cool completely before using.

Arrange the Bone-In Pork Loin Chops (4) in a baking dish, plastic storage container, or 1-gallon plastic bag so that they fit snugly; pour the maple brine over them to cover completely. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours and ideally up to 48 hours.

Remove pork chops from the brine and discard the brine. Prepare grill to medium-high heat. Rub or brush the pork chops with Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (2 Tbsp) and season with Kosher Salt (to taste) and Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste), being sure to season the bones as well.

Cook on the grill, undisturbed, just long enough for the pork to pick up some color and grill marks, 4 to 5 minutes for medium doneness.

Flip and repeat on the other flat side. Shift the pork chops to a cooler portion of the grill.

Turn each onto its rounded, fatty edge, either propping the chops against each other to cook them all together or taking turns holding them up with tongs. Cook until the fatty edge is golden and crispy, about 3 minutes.

Remove and let rest for 4 to 5 minutes before serving. Drizzle lightly with Grade B Maple Syrup (to taste), if desired.