If you’re looking for a delicious and unique way to prepare salmon, cooking it on a cedar plank is the perfect option. This cooking method infuses the fish with a subtle smoky flavor and results in a tender and moist fillet.

Using a cedar plank adds an extra layer of flavor to the salmon and creates a beautiful presentation. The wood imparts a slightly sweet and fragrant essence that complements the natural flavors of the fish. The cedar also helps to keep the salmon moist and prevents it from sticking to the grill or oven.

To cook salmon on a cedar plank, start by soaking the plank in water for at least one hour to prevent it from catching fire. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Place the soaked plank directly on the grill or in the oven for a few minutes until it starts to smoke and char slightly.

Meanwhile, season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets onto the preheated cedar plank. Cover the grill or close the oven and cook the salmon for about 15 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Tip: Cooking salmon on a cedar plank is not only delicious but also a visually stunning way to showcase this flavorful fish. Serve it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Preparing the Cedar Plank

Before you start cooking the salmon on a cedar plank, you need to properly prepare the plank to ensure the best flavor and cooking experience. Here are the steps to prepare the cedar plank:

1. Soak the cedar plank: Start by soaking the cedar plank in water for at least 1 hour before grilling. This step is essential to prevent the plank from catching fire during the cooking process.

2. Season the cedar plank: Once the plank is soaked, you can enhance the flavor of the salmon by seasoning the cedar plank. You can brush the plank with olive oil, sprinkle it with salt and pepper, or even add some herbs and spices according to your taste preferences.

3. Preheat the grill: While the cedar plank is soaking, you can preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the plank gets hot enough to cook the salmon properly.

4. Place the cedar plank on the grill: Once the grill is hot, carefully place the cedar plank on the grates. Close the lid and let the plank heat up for a few minutes until it starts to smoke.

5. Flip the cedar plank: After the plank has smoked for a few minutes, use tongs to flip it over. This will ensure that both sides of the plank are evenly heated and ready to cook the salmon.

By following these steps to prepare the cedar plank, you will create a smoky and flavorful cooking surface for your salmon that will enhance its taste and presentation.

See also  How long do you cook a 9lb turkey breast

Soaking the Cedar Plank

Before cooking salmon on a cedar plank, it is important to soak the plank to prevent it from catching fire on the grill and to infuse the fish with a lovely smoky flavor. Follow these steps to properly soak your cedar plank:

  1. Submerge the cedar plank completely in water. Make sure the plank is fully immersed.
  2. Weigh it down with a heavy object, such as a plate or a can, to ensure it remains submerged.
  3. Let the plank soak for at least 1 hour, but preferably up to 4 hours.
  4. Once the plank has finished soaking, remove it from the water and pat it dry with a clean cloth or paper towel.

Soaking the cedar plank will help it retain moisture while on the grill, allowing the salmon to cook evenly and preventing the wood from burning. It will also release the delightful aroma of cedar, enhancing the overall flavor of the fish.

Seasoning the Cedar Plank

Step 1: Before using a cedar plank for cooking, it’s important to season it. This helps to infuse the salmon with the flavors of the wood and also prevents the plank from catching fire during grilling.

Step 2: Start by soaking the cedar plank in water for at least 1 hour. This will help to prevent it from drying out and burning on the grill.

Step 3: Once the plank has soaked, remove it from the water and pat it dry with paper towels.

Step 4: Next, lightly brush or rub the plank with a bit of olive oil. This will help to create a non-stick surface and also add some flavor to the salmon.

Step 5: Sprinkle a generous amount of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper onto the oiled surface of the plank. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or herbs to enhance the flavor of the salmon.

Step 6: Rub the seasonings into the oiled surface of the plank using your hands or a brush.

Step 7: After seasoning the plank, it’s ready to be used for cooking salmon. Place the seasoned plank onto a preheated grill and allow it to heat up for a few minutes before adding the salmon.

Note: Some people prefer to season the salmon directly rather than the plank itself. You can do this by rubbing the salmon with olive oil and seasonings before placing it onto the plank.

Preparing the Salmon

Before cooking the salmon on a cedar plank, it is important to prepare the fish properly to ensure a flavorful and moist result.

Here are the steps to prepare the salmon:

1. Start by selecting a fresh, high-quality salmon fillet. Look for salmon that has bright, firm flesh and a mild, oceanic smell.
2. Rinse the salmon fillet under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
3. Season the salmon fillet with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other desired seasonings, such as garlic powder, lemon zest, or dill.
4. Let the seasoned salmon fillet sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
5. If desired, you can marinate the salmon in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, and spices for additional flavor. Simply place the fillet in a shallow dish, pour the marinade over it, and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
See also  How to cook trader joe's cauliflower rice

By properly preparing the salmon before cooking, you will enhance its natural flavors and ensure a delicious end result when cooking it on a cedar plank.

Selecting the Salmon

When cooking salmon on a cedar plank, it’s important to start with a fresh and high-quality piece of fish. Look for salmon that has a vibrant color and a firm texture, with no signs of discoloration or strong fishy odor. Fresh salmon is always the best choice for grilling on a cedar plank as it will enhance the flavors and ensure a delicious result.

Wild-caught salmon is generally considered superior to farmed salmon due to its natural diet and lifestyle. It tends to have a more robust flavor and a firmer texture. However, if wild-caught salmon is not available, responsibly farmed salmon is a good alternative. Look for farmed salmon that is sustainably raised, without the use of antibiotics or growth hormones.

Popular types of salmon for cooking on cedar planks include:

  • Coho salmon
  • Chinook salmon
  • Sockeye salmon
  • Pink salmon
  • Atlantic salmon

Choose the type of salmon that suits your taste preferences and availability in your local area. It’s also important to consider the size of the salmon fillet, ensuring that it fits well on the cedar plank without any overhang or crowding.

Seasoning the Salmon

Before cooking the salmon, it is important to properly season it to enhance its flavor. Here are some popular seasoning options:

  • Salt and Pepper: Sprinkle some salt and freshly ground black pepper evenly over the salmon to taste.
  • Garlic and Herb: Crush some garlic cloves and mix them with dried herbs like dill, thyme, or parsley. Rub this mixture on the salmon.
  • Asian-inspired: Combine soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic in a bowl. Brush this marinade onto the salmon for a delicious Asian-flavored twist.
  • Lemon and Dill: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon and sprinkle some chopped dill on top. This classic combination adds a refreshing and tangy taste.
  • Cajun Spice: Create a spicy rub by mixing paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture onto the salmon for a zesty Cajun flavor.

Whichever seasoning option you choose, make sure to coat the salmon evenly and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the fish, resulting in a more flavorful and delicious meal.

Cooking the Salmon on the Cedar Plank

Once you have prepared the cedar plank by soaking it in water for at least two hours, you are ready to cook the salmon. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious result:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium heat. This will allow the salmon to cook evenly without drying out.
  2. Place the soaked cedar plank directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and let it heat up for about 5 minutes, or until there is a light smoke coming from the plank.
  3. While the plank is heating up, prepare the salmon by seasoning it with your desired spices and herbs. Popular options include salt, pepper, lemon zest, and dill.
  4. Once the cedar plank is hot and smoky, place the seasoned salmon fillets directly on the plank. Close the lid and let the salmon cook undisturbed for about 12-15 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  5. During the cooking process, keep an eye on the plank to ensure it doesn’t catch fire. If needed, have a spray bottle filled with water nearby to extinguish any flames.
  6. Once the salmon is fully cooked, carefully remove the cedar plank from the grill using tongs or oven mitts. Place it on a heatproof surface and allow it to cool before discarding.
  7. Transfer the cooked salmon to a serving platter and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
See also  How long to cook brats on ninja foodi grill

By cooking salmon on a cedar plank, you will impart a smoky and woodsy flavor to the fish, creating a unique and delicious dish. Enjoy!

Questions and answers

What is the benefit of cooking salmon on a cedar plank?

Cooking salmon on a cedar plank imparts a smoky, earthy flavor to the fish. The cedar also helps to keep the salmon moist and tender during cooking.

Where can I buy cedar planks for cooking salmon?

Cedar planks for cooking salmon can be found in many kitchen supply stores, as well as online. They are typically sold in packs and can range in size from small individual portions to larger planks for cooking whole fillets.

How do you prepare the cedar plank before cooking salmon?

Before using a cedar plank to cook salmon, it is important to soak it in water for at least one hour. This will prevent the plank from catching fire or burning during the cooking process.

What is a good recipe for cooking salmon on a cedar plank?

One popular recipe for cooking salmon on a cedar plank involves seasoning the fish with salt, pepper, and lemon juice, and then grilling it on the plank until it is cooked through. Some people also like to add fresh herbs or a glaze to the salmon for added flavor.

Can you reuse a cedar plank after cooking salmon?

Cedar planks can be reused for cooking salmon, but they should first be thoroughly cleaned. After using the plank, scrape off any residue and rinse it with hot water. It is also recommended to flip the plank and use the other side for cooking the next time.