What does "brining" do to BBQ meats?

Brining is a process that significantly enhances the moisture and flavor of BBQ meats. When meat is submerged in a saltwater solution—often accompanied by sugar, spices, or aromatics—the salt begins to denature the proteins in the meat. This process allows the meat to retain moisture during cooking, leading to a juicier final product.

Additionally, the brine solution penetrates the meat, not only increasing its moisture content but also infusing it with flavor from the added ingredients. This makes brined meat more flavorful and tender compared to unbrined meat. Because of these benefits, brining is a popular technique among BBQ enthusiasts to ensure their meats are succulent and delicious.

The other choices refer to different techniques or concepts that don't specifically relate to the brining process, such as smoking, preservation methods related to curing, or the application of barbecue sauce, which serves a different purpose in the cooking and flavoring of BBQ.