Cedar-Planked Salmon – Grilled, aromatic salmon
Cedar-Planked Salmon is a classic North American recipe that imparts the distinct aroma of cedar wood to the rich and oily salmon as it grills. A typical preparation involves soaking a cedar plank in water to infuse moisture and prevent burning, then placing a seasoned salmon fillet on top. The salmon is often marinated or brushed with a mixture of herbs, citrus, olive oil, and sometimes maple syrup or brown sugar to enhance flavor. As the salmon cooks over the grill, the cedar plank chars slightly, enveloping the fish in a smoky, woodsy taste that complements its natural flavors, resulting in a beautifully tender and moist fish with an unmistakable cedar scent. Description by ChatGPT.
Transport your taste buds to a world of smoky allure with our Cedar Plank Salmon, infused with the delicate flavors of fresh dill, zesty lemon, and the rich sweetness of brown sugar. Brought to you by Postal Barbecue, this recipe combines the traditional method of cedar plank grilling with simple yet elegant seasoning, ensuring each flaky forkful is bursting with flavor. Perfect for your next outdoor gathering or a refined family dinner, experience the magnificence of perfectly cooked salmon with a twist of woodsy charm.
Prep Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (includes soaking the plank)
Cook Time: 15 to 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)
Servings: Varies depending on the size of the salmon fillet
Equipment:
- Cedar grilling plank
- Grill (for indirect cooking)
- Knife
- Cup (to help submerge the plank in water)
- Measuring utensils for seasoning
Ingredients:
- Fresh salmon fillet, skin on
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Fresh dill, to taste
- Brown sugar, for sprinkling
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Begin by submerging your cedar grilling plank in water, ensuring it stays fully immersed by placing a cup on top of it. Soak for about 1 hour to prevent it from burning on the grill.
2. As the plank soaks, prepare your salmon: with a sharp knife, carefully slice into the skin of the fillet. This step helps intensify the wood flavor while keeping the skin intact.
3. Flip over the salmon to season the flesh side. Start by sprinkling a generous amount of salt evenly over the surface.
4. Next, layer on a coating of brown sugar, which will caramelize and add a beautiful glaze as it cooks.
5. Arrange fresh dill sprigs over the brown sugar, infusing the herb's flavor into the salmon.
6. Finish by topping the fillet with slices of lemon, adding a citrusy zest that complements the sweetness.
7. Set up your grill for indirect cooking, placing coals on both sides, and preheat it to a target temperature of around 375 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
8. Once the plank is soaked and the salmon is seasoned, dry the cooking surface of the plank by placing it, surface side down, on the grill for 1 minute.
9. After the minute, turn over the plank and position it in the middle of the grill, between the coals.
10. Carefully lay the seasoned salmon fillet onto the cedar plank.
11. Close the grill lid and cook the salmon for 15 to 20 minutes, maintaining the temperature at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
12. After 15 minutes, check the salmon for doneness. It should be flaky and have an internal temperature of about 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
13. Once cooked, transfer the salmon from the grill onto a suitable dish, allowing it to cool slightly.
14. Serve the cedar plank salmon warm, relishing in its exquisite flavor. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the salmon is brought to room temperature before placing on the grill for even cooking.
- Always preheat the cedar plank as it helps avoid sticking and intensifies the smoky flavor.
- Monitor the grill temperature closely to avoid overcooking the salmon.
This recipe is proudly presented by Postal Barbecue. For more delightful recipes, BBQ tutorials, and reviews, visit and subscribe to their YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PostalBarbecue.
Cedar-Planked Salmon – Grilled, aromatic salmon
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