Makes 1 Gallon Brine
1 gallon water
1/2 C salt
garlic powder
onion powder
bay leaf

Put all ingredients in a large stock pot, stir, bring to a boil, turn off, stir again and let cool. When tasting, brine should be flavorful, almost like an over-salted soup.

Feel free to play with the spices to vary the flavor. Other spices that work well are:

• Paprika
• Instant coffee grounds
• Curry powder
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh herbs (Basil, Sage, Parsley, Thyme, Rosemary, etc.)

Many people have poor opinions of MSG but I use it frequently. A healthy addition of MSG to this brine can give it that “something” you might find missing.

This can be made ahead and frozen.

Use to brine pork or chicken. Not recommended for beef or fish.