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September 20, 2024
Salmon is a delicious and healthy fish that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One popular method is cooking salmon on a cedar plank in the oven. This method infuses the salmon with a smoky flavor and keeps it moist and tender. It’s a great option for those who don’t have a grill or prefer cooking indoors.
Cedar planks are thin pieces of wood that add a unique flavor to the salmon. The wood releases aromatic oils when heated, giving the fish a slightly sweet and smoky taste. Additionally, cooking salmon on a cedar plank helps protect it from direct heat, preventing it from drying out and becoming tough.
Before cooking the salmon, it’s important to prepare the cedar plank. Soak the plank in water for at least an hour to prevent it from catching fire in the oven. This step also helps to create steam, which aids in keeping the salmon moist. Once the plank is soaked, it’s ready to be used as a cooking surface.
Cooking cedar plank salmon in the oven is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this flavorful fish. By using a cedar plank, you can infuse the salmon with a smoky taste and achieve moist and tender results. Whether you’re a seafood lover or looking to add more variety to your cooking repertoire, this method is sure to impress your taste buds.
Preparation for Cooking Cedar Plank Salmon
Before you start cooking cedar plank salmon in the oven, there are a few important steps to take to ensure a delicious and successful meal. Follow these preparation tips to get the best results:
1. Soak the Cedar Plank
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Before using the cedar plank, it’s crucial to soak it in water for at least 1-2 hours. This prevents the plank from catching fire while in the oven and adds moisture to the salmon as it cooks.
2. Select and Season the Salmon
Choose fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor. Season the salmon with your preferred marinade, dry rub, or a simple mixture of salt, pepper, and herbs. Let the salmon sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the fish.
3. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure an even and consistent cooking temperature.
4. Prepare the Cedar Plank
Remove the cedar plank from the water and pat it dry. Place the plank on a baking sheet or directly on the oven rack to prevent any drippings from spilling onto the oven.
5. Arrange the Salmon on the Plank
Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the prepared cedar plank, leaving some space between each fillet. This allows for even cooking and ensures that the salmon does not stick together.
6. Cook the Salmon
Transfer the cedar plank with the salmon to the preheated oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
Remember to always keep a close eye on the salmon while it’s cooking to prevent it from burning or overcooking.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once the cedar plank salmon is cooked, carefully remove it from the oven. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad, and enjoy!
Choosing the Right Cedar Plank for Salmon
When cooking salmon on a cedar plank in the oven, it is important to choose the right cedar plank to enhance the flavor of the fish. Here are a few tips to help you select the perfect cedar plank:
1. Cedar Type: Select a cedar plank made from Western red cedar or Alaska yellow cedar. These types of cedar have a mild, sweet aroma that complements the delicate flavor of salmon.
2. Size: Choose a cedar plank that is large enough to comfortably fit the salmon fillet. The plank should be wide enough to hold the fish and leave a little extra space on the sides.
3. Thickness: Opt for a cedar plank that is at least 1/2 inch thick. This ensures that the plank will not burn or char too quickly in the oven.
4. Quality: Look for cedar planks that are free from knots, cracks, and other imperfections. These flaws can affect the flavor of the salmon and may cause the plank to break or warp during cooking.
5. Soaking: Before using the cedar plank, soak it in water for at least 1-2 hours. This helps prevent the plank from catching fire in the oven and adds moisture to the cooking process.
6. Reusability: Consider purchasing cedar planks that are reusable. This allows you to enjoy the flavors of cedar-planked salmon multiple times without having to purchase new planks each time.
By following these tips, you can ensure that you choose the right cedar plank to enhance the flavor of your oven-baked salmon. Happy cooking!
Soaking the Cedar Plank
Before cooking cedar plank salmon in the oven, it is important to soak the cedar plank to prevent it from catching fire. Soaking the plank also adds moisture to the fish during cooking, resulting in a delicious and tender dish.
To soak the cedar plank:
- Fill a clean sink or large bowl with water.
- Submerge the cedar plank in the water, ensuring it is fully covered.
- Weigh down the plank with a heavy object, such as a plate or can, to ensure it stays submerged.
- Allow the plank to soak for at least 1 hour, but overnight soaking is recommended for best results.
Soaking the cedar plank allows it to absorb water, which helps to create steam as it heats in the oven. This steam keeps the salmon moist while imparting a subtle smoky flavor.
Why soak the cedar plank?
Soaking the cedar plank prevents it from catching fire and burning during cooking. If the plank isn’t soaked, it can ignite in the hot oven, leading to an unpleasant taste and potentially hazardous situation. Additionally, the moisture from soaking helps to create a steamy environment in the oven, which helps to keep the salmon moist and flavorful.
How long to soak the cedar plank?
It is generally recommended to soak the cedar plank for at least 1 hour before cooking. However, for the best results, it is best to soak the plank overnight. This extended soaking time ensures the plank is fully saturated and minimizes the risk of it catching fire during cooking. If you’re short on time, you can soak the plank for a minimum of 1 hour, but keep in mind that longer soaking time is preferable.
| Tip: | If you’re short on time, you can place a heatproof object, such as a baking sheet, on top of the cedar plank while it soaks to help speed up the soaking process. |
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Seasoning and Marinating the Salmon
Before cooking the salmon on a cedar plank in the oven, it’s important to season and marinate it to enhance the flavors. Here’s how you can do it:
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By marinating the salmon, you will infuse it with a tangy and herbaceous flavor that complements the smokiness from cooking on the cedar plank. This step is essential for enhancing the taste of the finished dish. Once the salmon is properly seasoned and marinated, you’re ready to move on to the next step: cooking it in the oven on a cedar plank.
Preparing the Marinade for Cedar Plank Salmon
Marinating the salmon before cooking is essential to add flavor and moisture to the dish. The marinade not only enhances the taste of the salmon but also helps to keep it moist and tender. Here is a simple and delicious marinade recipe to prepare your cedar plank salmon:
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Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 pounds salmon fillets
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and black pepper.
- Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.
- Pour the marinade over the salmon, making sure all the fillets are coated. If using a plastic bag, seal it tightly, removing as much air as possible.
- Marinate the salmon in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but ideally for 1-2 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the flesh of the salmon.
Once the salmon is marinated, it is ready to be cooked on a cedar plank in the oven. The marinade will infuse the fish with a delicious blend of flavors, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish. Remember to preheat the oven and soak the cedar plank before cooking for the best results.
Applying Seasonings to the Salmon
Before cooking the salmon, it’s important to season it properly to enhance its flavor. Here are some seasonings that work well with cedar plank salmon:
- Sea salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Thyme
- Dill
To apply the seasonings, follow these steps:
- Remove the salmon from the packaging and pat it dry with a paper towel.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of sea salt and black pepper on both sides of the salmon.
- Next, sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and dill evenly over the salmon.
- Press the seasonings onto the salmon with your fingertips to ensure they adhere well.
- Let the seasoned salmon sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the fish.
Remember, the amount of seasoning needed will depend on the size of the salmon fillet. Use your judgment and adjust the seasonings accordingly. Once the seasonings are applied, you’re ready to move on to the next step of cooking the cedar plank salmon in the oven.
Q&A
What is cedar plank salmon?
Cedar plank salmon is a method of cooking salmon on a wooden plank made from cedar wood. The salmon is placed on the plank and then cooked in the oven, resulting in a smoky and flavorful dish.
How do I prepare the cedar plank for cooking?
To prepare the cedar plank for cooking, you should first soak it in water for at least 1-2 hours. This prevents the plank from catching fire in the oven. After soaking, you can pat it dry and then lightly brush it with oil to prevent the salmon from sticking.
What temperature should I cook cedar plank salmon at in the oven?
You should preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) before cooking cedar plank salmon. This high heat helps to cook the salmon quickly and evenly, while also giving it a nice browned crust.
How long does it take to cook cedar plank salmon in the oven?
The cooking time for cedar plank salmon can vary depending on the thickness of the salmon fillet and personal preference. As a general guideline, it usually takes about 12-15 minutes to cook a 1-inch thick salmon fillet. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fish – if it flakes easily and is opaque, it is ready to be taken out of the oven.