Pork Marinade

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Servings: 12 servings Difficulty: Intermediate
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A robust, sweet, and smoky brine perfect for whole pigs or large cuts of pork.
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Pork Marinade

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: , Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 12 servings Calories: 93.1
Dietary:
V Vegan

Description

This international-style pork marinade is a game-changer for low-and-slow cooking. It combines a classic salty brine with aromatic spices like allspice, pickling spice, and garlic powder to tenderize the meat and infuse deep flavor. The addition of brown sugar, molasses, and maple extract creates a beautiful, caramelized crust while keeping the interior moist and juicy. Ideal for whole pig roasts, pork shoulders, or ribs, this marinade delivers a savory-sweet profile with a subtle smoky kick from liquid smoke. It’s the perfect foundation for backyard BBQs, festive gatherings, or any time you want to elevate your pork dishes with rich, home-style flavor.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. In a large stockpot or mixing container, combine the water and salt.
  2. Heat the water slightly if necessary to help dissolve the salt completely, then let it cool to room temperature or chill it.
  3. Add the vinegar, brown sugar, dark molasses, and maple extract to the brine mixture. Stir until fully dissolved.
  4. Stir in the pickling spice, allspice, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and celery salt.
  5. Add the liquid smoke and mix well to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
  6. Place the pork cut (such as a whole pig, pork shoulder, or ribs) into a large food-safe bag or non-reactive container.
  7. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it is fully submerged. Seal the bag or cover the container.
  8. Refrigerate for 24 to 120 hours (depending on the size of the cut), turning the meat occasionally to ensure even absorption.
  9. When ready to cook, remove the pork from the brine and discard the remaining liquid. Pat the meat dry with paper towels before applying any dry rub or proceeding to cook.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 12 servings

Amount Per Serving
Calories 93.1kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.1g1%
Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 35101.6mg1463%
Total Carbohydrate 21.3g8%
Dietary Fiber 0.9g4%
Sugars 18.5g
Protein 0.6g2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: pork, brine, marinade, bbq, smoking, whole pig, pork shoulder, allspice, molasses, maple, garlic, onion, celery salt, liquid smoke, pickling spice, vinegar, spice rub, tenderizer, flavor, sauce
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