The process of submerging a cut of pork in a solution primarily composed of salt and water, often augmented with sugar and aromatics, before cooking is a common culinary technique. This procedure aims to enhance the meat’s moisture content and flavor profile. For example, a solution might include kosher salt, brown sugar, peppercorns, and bay leaves dissolved in water, in which a pork loin is then fully immersed for a specified period.
Employing this method offers multiple advantages. It leads to a more succulent final product by enabling the meat to absorb liquid, thus mitigating dryness, particularly in leaner cuts like pork loin. Furthermore, the infused salt and other flavoring agents permeate the meat, resulting in a more evenly seasoned and palatable dish. Historically, this technique was crucial for preserving meats before widespread refrigeration became available, extending shelf life and improving taste.
