brining

Definition

Soaking meat in a saltwater solution to enhance moisture retention and flavor through osmosis and protein restructuring. The insurance policy against serving dry, disappointing turkey.

Example Usage

After brining the pork chops overnight, they stayed juicy even when cooked to a safe temperature.

Origin

From 'brine,' Old English 'bryne' meaning saltwater or the sea

Fun Fact

Brining can increase moisture retention by up to 10%, and adding sugar to the brine helps with browning thanks to the Maillard reaction.

Source: Food science and culinary technique standards

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