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December 10, 2024
If you’re looking for a delicious and flavorful way to cook salmon, look no further than cedar planking. This cooking technique infuses the fish with a smoky, woodsy taste that is sure to impress your guests. While grilling salmon on a cedar plank is a popular method, you can also achieve excellent results in the oven.
Cedar planking works by placing a piece of salmon on a soaked cedar plank and then cooking the fish in the oven. As the heat from the oven reaches the plank, it begins to release aromatic oils and flavors, imparting a unique taste to the salmon.
To get started, begin by soaking your cedar plank in water for at least an hour. This step is crucial as it prevents the plank from catching fire in the oven. Once soaked, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pro tip: You can add extra flavor to your cedar planked salmon by marinating the fish beforehand. Simply combine your favorite marinade ingredients, such as garlic, lemon juice, soy sauce, or honey, and let the salmon sit in the marinade for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking.
The Best Way to Cook Cedar Planked Salmon in the Oven
Salmon is a delicious and healthy option for a meal, and cooking it on a cedar plank adds a unique and smoky flavor to the dish. If you don’t have access to a grill or prefer to cook indoors, using the oven is a great alternative. Here is the best way to cook cedar planked salmon in the oven.
Ingredients:
- 1 cedar plank, soaked in water for at least 1 hour
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Remove the soaked cedar plank from the water and pat it dry with a towel.
3. Place the cedar plank on a baking sheet and brush the surface with olive oil.
4. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down on the cedar plank.
5. Place the baking sheet with the cedar plank and salmon in the preheated oven.
6. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Remove the cedar plank from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
8. Serve the cedar planked salmon hot, garnished with lemon wedges.
This method of cooking cedar planked salmon in the oven allows the flavors from the cedar to infuse into the fish, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish. The high heat of the oven ensures that the salmon cooks evenly and quickly. Soaking the cedar plank beforehand prevents it from burning in the oven.
Next time you’re craving cedar planked salmon but don’t have access to a grill, try using your oven instead. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious and impressive meal in no time.
Choosing the Right Cedar Planks for your Salmon
When it comes to cooking salmon on cedar planks in the oven, choosing the right cedar plank is essential for enhancing the flavor and creating a delicious dish. Here are a few factors to consider when selecting cedar planks for your salmon:
1. Cedar Type
There are different types of cedar wood available for planking salmon, such as Western Red Cedar, Alaskan Yellow Cedar, and Northern White Cedar. Each type of cedar offers a unique flavor profile, so choose the one that aligns with your taste preferences. Western Red Cedar is the most commonly used type for cooking salmon, as it imparts a distinct smoky and sweet flavor.
2. Size and Thickness
The size and thickness of the cedar plank are important considerations. The plank should be large enough to accommodate the size of your salmon fillet without overcrowding, allowing for even cooking. It should also be thick enough to withstand the heat of the oven without burning or warping.
Typically, cedar planks that are about 1/2 inch thick are recommended for cooking salmon, as they provide enough surface area for the fish to absorb the smoky flavors from the wood.
Make sure to soak the cedar plank in water for at least 1-2 hours before using it. This helps to prevent the plank from catching fire in the oven and creates a moist cooking environment that infuses the salmon with the aromatic cedar flavors.
By considering the type of cedar and the size and thickness of the plank, you can choose the right cedar plank for your salmon and create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your guests.
Preparing the Cedar Planks for Cooking
Before you can start cooking the salmon on the cedar planks, you need to prepare the planks themselves. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Soak the cedar planks in water for at least 1 hour before cooking. This will help prevent them from burning while in the oven. Make sure the planks are fully submerged in the water.
2. While the planks are soaking, preheat the oven to the desired temperature. Most recipes recommend preheating the oven to 425°F (220°C) for cooking cedar planked salmon.
3. After soaking for an hour, remove the cedar planks from the water and pat them dry with a clean towel. It’s important to remove any excess water to avoid excess steam and maintain the smoky flavor from the cedar.
4. Lightly brush or spray the dried cedar planks with a small amount of oil to prevent the salmon from sticking. Vegetable oil or olive oil can be used for this purpose.
5. Place the prepared cedar planks on a baking sheet or directly on the oven rack. This will catch any drippings from the salmon and make cleanup easier.
6. Now, you’re ready to start cooking the cedar planked salmon!
Marinating Your Salmon for Extra Flavor
To enhance the flavor of your cedar planked salmon, marinating is an essential step that infuses the fish with delicious ingredients. A marinade is a mixture of flavorful liquids and spices that is used to soak the fish before cooking. It not only adds extra taste but also helps in tenderizing the salmon.
Choosing the Right Marinade
There are countless marinade recipes available, and you can experiment with different flavors to find your favorite. Some popular marinade options for cedar planked salmon include:
| Marinade Ingredients | Description |
|---|---|
| Citrus and Herb | This marinade combines the refreshing flavors of citrus fruits like lemons or oranges with fresh herbs like dill or parsley. |
| Asian-inspired | For an Asian twist, you can create a marinade using soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a hint of sesame oil. |
| Honey and Mustard | The sweetness of honey and the tanginess of mustard create a delicious marinade that pairs well with salmon. |
Marinating Process
When marinating your salmon, follow these simple steps:
- Prepare your marinade by mixing the desired ingredients in a bowl.
- Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.
- Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring that all sides are coated.
- Cover the dish or seal the bag tightly, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to overnight. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful the salmon will become.
Remember to discard the marinade after use, as it may contain raw fish juices.
By marinating your salmon before cooking, you can take your cedar planked salmon dish to the next level of flavor. Whether you choose a citrus and herb marinade or an Asian-inspired one, the marination process is guaranteed to make your salmon moist, tender, and bursting with taste.
Preheating and Preparing your Oven
Before you begin cooking your cedar planked salmon in the oven, it’s important to preheat and prepare your oven correctly. Follow these simple steps to ensure your oven is ready to cook the perfect salmon:
1. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will allow the salmon to cook evenly and achieve a delicious, flaky texture.
2. While your oven is preheating, take the time to prepare your cedar plank. Soak the cedar plank in water for at least 1-2 hours. This step is important as it will prevent the plank from catching fire in the oven and infuse the salmon with a smoky, woody flavor.
3. Once the oven is preheated and the cedar plank is soaked, remove the plank from the water and pat it dry with a paper towel. Place the cedar plank on a baking sheet or directly on the oven rack, making sure it fits comfortably in the oven.
4. At this point, you can lightly oil the cedar plank to prevent the salmon from sticking. Using a brush or your fingers, apply a thin layer of olive oil or another cooking oil of your choice to the surface of the plank.
5. Now, your oven is preheated, and your cedar plank is prepared. It’s time to place the salmon fillets on the cedar plank. Arrange the salmon fillets skin-side down on the plank, leaving a small space between each fillet for even cooking.
6. Once the salmon is on the plank, carefully transfer the plank to the preheated oven. Place it in the center of the oven to ensure even heat distribution.
Now that your oven is preheated and your cedar-planked salmon is ready to cook, you can move on to the next steps in the cooking process.
Cooking and Serving your Cedar Planked Salmon
To cook your cedar planked salmon in the oven, follow these simple steps:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Soak the cedar plank in water for at least 1 hour to prevent it from catching fire.
- Season the salmon fillet with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices.
- Place the soaked cedar plank on a baking sheet and put the seasoned salmon fillet on top.
- Place the baking sheet with the cedar plank and salmon in the preheated oven.
- Cook the salmon for about 15-20 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven.
Now that your cedar planked salmon is ready, it’s time to serve it. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Transfer the salmon fillet to a serving platter using a spatula or fish flipper.
- Garnish the salmon with fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, for added flavor and decoration.
- Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the salmon to enhance its taste.
- Serve the cedar planked salmon with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
- For a complete meal, consider serving the salmon with steamed rice or roasted potatoes.
- Enjoy your delicious cedar planked salmon!
Q&A
What is cedar planked salmon?
Cedar planked salmon is a method of cooking salmon on a cedar plank, which imparts a smoky and earthy flavor to the fish.
Where can I buy cedar planks for cooking salmon?
Cedar planks can be purchased at most grocery stores, specialty food stores, or online retailers that sell grilling and cooking accessories.
How long do I soak the cedar planks before cooking?
It is recommended to soak the cedar planks in water for at least 1-2 hours before cooking. This helps prevent them from catching fire on the grill or in the oven.
What temperature should the oven be set to for cooking cedar planked salmon?
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) for cooking cedar planked salmon. This high temperature allows for a quick and even cooking of the fish.
What seasonings or marinades can be used with cedar planked salmon?
There are many options for seasoning or marinating cedar planked salmon, such as lemon, dill, garlic, honey, soy sauce, or maple syrup. It ultimately depends on personal preference and desired flavors.
What is cedar planked salmon?
Cedar planked salmon is a method of cooking salmon where the fish is placed on a plank of cedar wood and then cooked in the oven. The cedar wood infuses the fish with a smoky and aromatic flavor, resulting in a delicious and unique dish.