All-Purpose Barbecue Brine
Makes about a gallon
Adapted from Matt Fisher

This brine works for all kinds of barbecued or grilled meats, says Fisher, and "provides some wiggle room to prevent well-done foods from being dry."

1/2 gallon water
1/2 gallon apple juice
1/2 cup table salt or 1 cup Kosher salt
1/8 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons five-spice powder (or use another seasoning of your choice, like lemon pepper)

Mix brine ingredients. In the refrigerator, soak pork chops or other meats in brine for 1-3 hours before cooking.