Pork Chops With a Flavorful Cider

1. In a small saucepan, stir 1 cup of water with the salt, 1/3 cup honey, and thyme over medium heat until the salt dissolves and the water is hot, but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat. Add the cider, ice water, and 1 tsp hot sauce, stirring until the ice melts to create a marinade.
3. Place the pork chops in a resealable plastic bag, then seal the bag.
4. Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours. In a small bowl, mix the remaining honey and 1 tsp hot sauce; set aside.
5. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 230 ºC).
6.  Remove the chops from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Grill the chops over direct heat until the internal temperature reaches 60 ºC (medium-rare) to 70 ºC (medium) on a meat thermometer, about 4 to 5 minutes per side.
7. During the last 2 minutes, baste the chops on both sides with the reserved honey mixture. Remove from the grill and let rest for 3 minutes.

Enjoy!

*Courtesy of National Pork Board, Des Moines, Iowa