Nothing elevates a barbecue experience quite like learning how to cook fish on cedar plank. This classic method not only imparts an exquisite smoky flavor to the fish but also ensures that your meal is cooked evenly and remains moist throughout.
Why Choose Cedar Plank?
The use of cedar planks in cooking has been around for centuries, originating from the indigenous peoples of North America. Traditionally used to cook fish over open flames, cedar planks infuse the fish with a subtle, smoky flavor that's hard to achieve with other cooking methods. They also help to keep the fish from sticking to the grill and falling apart, making them a reliable choice for barbecue enthusiasts.
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Ingredients and Tools You'll Need
- Fresh fish fillets (salmon is highly recommended)
- Cedar plank (make sure it's untreated and food-safe) - Buy here
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh herbs (dill, thyme, or rosemary)
- Lemon slices
- Garlic cloves, minced
- [Griddle](https://www.amazon.com/Griddle/dp/B01N1HXXXX) - a great alternative for indoor grilling
- [Knife](https://www.amazon.com/Knife/dp/B01N1HXXXX) - for precise cuts
- [Cutting board](https://www.amazon.com/Cutting-Board/dp/B01N1HXXXX) - to prepare your ingredients
Preparation Steps
1. Soak the Cedar Plank
Before you start cooking, it's essential to soak the cedar plank in water for at least one to two hours. This helps in preventing the plank from catching fire and allows it to release its smoky essence gradually. You can also add a splash of white wine, apple cider, or even orange juice to the water for an added layer of flavor.
2. Preheat the Grill
While the plank is soaking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you're using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly distributed. You can check out [how to cook salmon on griddle](https://www.grilling4all.com/blogs/recipes/how-to-cook-salmon-on-griddle) if you need an alternative indoor method.
3. Prepare the Fish
While the grill is heating up, start preparing your fish. Lay the fillets on a [cutting board](https://www.amazon.com/Cutting-Board/dp/B01N1HXXXX) and pat them dry with paper towels. Drizzle them with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Lay fresh herbs and lemon slices on top of the fillets.
4. Place the Plank on the Grill
Once your grill is nice and hot, place the soaked cedar plank on it. Close the lid and let it heat up for about 3-5 minutes until it starts to crackle and smoke. This initial heating is crucial as it opens up the pores of the wood, ready to infuse the fish with its smoky essence.
5. Cook the Fish
Lay your seasoned fish fillets on the hot plank. Close the lid of the grill and let the fish cook for about 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145F (63C) to be considered fully cooked. Avoid opening the grill too often to maintain a consistent heat.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once the fish is cooked, carefully remove the cedar plank from the grill using tongs. Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. The combination of the smoky cedar plank, fresh herbs, and lemon slices will produce a mouth-watering aroma and flavor that your guests will love.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cedar Plank Fish
1. **Choose the Right Fish**: While salmon is a popular choice, you can try other types of fish like trout, halibut, or even shrimp. The fatty content of fish like salmon and trout works exceptionally well with cedar planks.
2. **Control the Heat**: Maintaining a consistent medium-high heat is crucial for cooking fish on a cedar plank. You can move the plank to a cooler side of the grill if it starts to char excessively.
3. **Experiment with Flavors**: While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, don't be afraid to experiment with different marinades and herbs. A soy-based marinade or a dill and mustard glaze can elevate the flavors even more.
Health Benefits of Cedar Plank Fish
Not only is cedar plank fish cooking a flavorful method, but it's also a healthy one. Fish like salmon are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are excellent for heart health. The plank cooking method doesn't require much oil, keeping the dish low in calories.
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Once you're done with your grilling session, it's essential to clean your equipment properly. For your griddle and other cookware, we recommend using [Cookware Cleaner](https://www.amazon.com/Cookware-Cleaner/dp/B01N1H4XXXX). Don't forget to maintain your [cutting board](https://www.amazon.com/Cutting-Board/dp/B01N1HXXXX) by applying [Cutting Board Oil](https://www.amazon.com/Cutting-Board-Oil/dp/B01N1H40XXXX) regularly.
Conclusion
Learning how to cook fish on cedar plank is a rewarding experience that combines tradition, flavor, and health benefits. Whether you're a seasoned barbecue enthusiast or a newbie, this method is sure to impress. Happy grilling!
For similar cooking methods, you can check out our articles on [how to cook quinoa seeds](https://www.grilling4all.com/blogs/recipes/how-to-cook-quinoa-seeds-in-rice-cooker), [how to cook a breakfast casserole](https://www.grilling4all.com/blogs/recipes/how-to-cook-a-breakfast-casserole), and [how to cook white rice](https://www.grilling4all.com/blogs/recipes/how-to-cook-white-rice-in-rice-cooker). For more fish recipes, visit [Delicious Magazine's fish recipes](https://www.deliciousmagazine.co.uk/five-ways-to-cook-fish)
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