Honey Cider Brine for Chicken or Pork
1 gallon water1 cup brown sugar2/3 cup kosher salt3 tbsp honey3 bay leaves5 garlic cloves crushedassortment of fresh herbs (thyme, chervil, rosemary and chives)1 cup apple cider3 cups ice
1) Combine all ingredients and bring to a boil in a large stock pot. Let boil for 4 minutes. Remove from heat and add ice.
2) When liquid is cood, pour brine over chicken or pork, totally submerging the protein. Leave chicken in brine for 4 to 6 hours.
3) Thoroughly dry chicken, season and smoke.
4) You may use brine as a mopping sauce throughout the smoke.