What can you cook on cedar planks?

What does cooking on a cedar plank do?

As the fish cooks and the plank heats up, this moisture rises out of the plank and pulls the characteristic flavors of Cedar with it. This essentially infuses the salmon with a fresh wood flavor and allows the fish to gently steam as the plank acts as a barrier between it and the heat source.

Is it safe to cook on cedar plank?

Cedar wood is not a hardwood. It is a softwood that is from the gymnosperm trees meaning, it is a conifer or cone producing tree. As a rule, softwoods should not be used for cooking as they contain a lot of air and sap which equates to a fast burn and unpleasant flavors.

Can I make my own cedar planks for grilling?

Grilling planks can be made from all types of wood, including cedar, alder, hickory, and — on the sweeter side — maple. … Head to the lumber yard and look for thin planks of wood, such as those used for building fences. Make sure the wood is at least 1-inch thick and 6-inches wide. Ensure that the wood untreated.

How long do you cook fish on a cedar plank?

Place the cedar plank in the center of the hot grate, away from the heat. Cover the grill and cook until cooked through, around 20 to 30 minutes. The internal temperature should read 135 degrees F. Transfer the salmon and plank to a platter and serve right off the plank.

Can you Soak cedar planks too long?

Yes, you have to soak Cedar planks before cooking with them. Soaking for 15 minutes in warm water is the optimal soaking time. The flavor infusion is most apparent after 15 minutes and does not increase with longer soaking times.

How many times can you use cedar planks?

After removing the grilled food, scrape the plank clean and the soak it in a container of warm water without soap. Planks may be reused two or three times, even if charred. If the wood is completely blistered, break it up and use it as smoking chips.

How do you know when Cedar plank salmon is done?

Place the salmon fillets onto the planks and discard the marinade. Cover, and grill for about 20 minutes. Fish is done when you can flake it with a fork. It will continue to cook after you remove it from the grill.

Can you reuse cedar planks after cooking salmon?

A. Yes, but we don’t recommend it. Technically, if the grilling plank is still in good shape after the initial use it may be reused. Keep in mind that it will take on the flavor of whatever you grilled on it, and some of the essential oils from the wood will be used up from the first round of grilling.

Are cedar planks bad for you?

Safe and Tasty



Native to the Pacific Northwest and the original Cedar wood used in traditional Native American cooking. Western Red Cedar is delicious and non-toxic. This is the safest and most recommended for Cedar plank cooking.

Is cedar toxic to humans?

The Western Redcedar (Thuja plicata) and Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana), also known as aromatic Cedar. Caution- Eastern Red Cedar is actually quite toxic if ingested. Be sure to know the difference between the two trees if you’re planning to use for medicinal purposes.

Are cedar fumes toxic?

Occupational exposure to cedar and pine woods and pine resin (colophony) can cause asthma and chronic lung disease.