Grilled Chicken Wings with 9-Spice Rub

Brine the wings: In a large saucepan, combine the salt, sugar, garlic, peppercorns and bay leaf with 2 quarts of water and bring to a boil. Cook over moderate heat, stirring, until the sugar and salt dissolve, about 3 minutes. Let cool to room temperature. In a large bowl, pour the brine over the chicken wings. Cover and refrigerate for 3 hours. Meanwhile make the rub: In a bowl, mix all of the ingredients except the oil and lime. Light a grill and oil the grate. Drain the wings and pat dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, toss the wings with 1/3 cup of the dry rub. Grill over moderate heat, turning, until nicely charred and cooked through, about 15 minutes. Serve hot with lime wedges.