Combine all ingredients except meat in a large pot and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
Place meat in in a non-metallic container (glass, plastic, ziploc, etc) and pour brine over to cover.
Refrigerate 5 - 7 days. Remove meat from brine and rinse under cold water.
Put rinsed meat in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 3 - 4 hours or until meat is very tender.