How to Cook on a Cedar Plank

Cedar-plank cooking has its roots in the Pacific Northwest, where natives cooked the fish they caught on damp cedar planks as a matter of need and convenience--and found that they enhanced the taste. Now the use of this cooking technique has widespread use and is not limited to only one type of food. Entire meals are often prepared on cedar planks, and refinements and variations on the basic method have been developed.

Things You'll Need

• Cedar plank(s)
• Olive oi
• Gas or charcoal grill
• Spray bottle filled with water

Instructions

1. Wash the plank in mild soapy water and rinse clean. Soak the plank in water overnight, if possible, but for a minimum of one hour before use.

2. Inspect the plank and select the smoother of the two sides on which to cook. Brush this side with a light coating of olive oil to prevent the food from sticking to the plank.

3. Place your food directly onto the plank, and then place the plank on the grill over a medium to medium-high heat and close the lid.

4. Check the grill often to monitor your food and remove it when it is cooked to your liking. Also keep an eye on the plank itself; keep a spray bottle filled with water on hand so that you can put out any flames that arise on the edges of the plank.

5. Take your dish right from the grill and serve it on the table while still on the plank for a great presentation. Just remember to place a trivet or pot holder underneath the hot plank first.

Tips & Warnings

• A conventional oven may also be used for cedar-plank cooking. Many recipes recommend cooking in the 350 to 375 degree Fahrenheit range. A popular technique also calls for setting the plank in a roasting pan with 1/4 inch of water in it to provide plenty of moisture for the plank and avoid any fire concerns. Many people enjoy soaking the plank in liquids besides water to add flavor to the food as the steam rises off the plank while cooking. White wines, beer or apple ciders are some of the other liquids used. You can use any meats or vegetables on the plank; feel free to experiment.

References

• Cedar-Plank Cooking

Resources

• Smoked salmon plank-cooking recipes