How To Grill On Cedar Planks

Grilling on cedar planks is a fantastic way to infuse your food with a delicious smoky flavor. Whether you're grilling fish, chicken, or vegetables, cedar planks can take your BBQ game to the next level. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to grill on cedar planks like a pro.

Choosing the Right Cedar Planks

When it comes to grilling on cedar planks, it’s essential to start with the right materials. Look for untreated cedar planks that are specifically designed for grilling. These planks can usually be found at your local grocery store or specialty cooking stores. Make sure the planks are thick enough to withstand the heat of the grill without warping or catching fire.

Preparing the Cedar Planks

Before you start grilling, you’ll need to prepare the cedar planks to ensure they impart the best flavor to your food. Follow these steps:

Submerge the planks in water for at least 1-2 hours before grilling. This will prevent them from catching fire on the grill.
Some chefs like to add flavor to the planks by soaking them in wine, beer, or fruit juice. This can add an extra layer of complexity to the smoky flavor.
Once the planks are done soaking, remove them from the water and pat them dry with a paper towel.

Preparing the Grill

Now that your planks are ready, it’s time to prepare the grill for cooking. Follow these steps:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 350-400°F.
Place the cedar planks directly on the grill grates and close the lid. Let them heat for 2-3 minutes until they start to smoke.
Once the planks start to smoke, flip them over using tongs to ensure they are evenly heated on both sides.

Grilling on Cedar Planks

Now comes the fun part – grilling your food on the cedar planks. Follow these steps for a delicious and smoky result:

Place your seasoned food directly onto the heated cedar planks. The planks will infuse the food with a delicate smoky flavor as they cook.
Close the grill lid and let the food cook according to your recipe’s instructions. Keep a close eye on the planks to ensure they don’t catch fire.
Once the food is cooked to perfection, carefully remove the planks from the grill using heat-resistant gloves or tongs.

Cleaning and Reusing Cedar Planks

After grilling, you can clean the cedar planks for reuse. Follow these steps:

Allow the planks to cool completely before cleaning them.
Gently scrub the planks with a sponge or brush to remove any remaining food particles.
Rinse the planks with water and let them air dry completely before storing them for future use.

Grilling on cedar planks is a simple yet impressive way to elevate your BBQ dishes. With the right preparation and technique, you can enjoy the delicious, smoky flavor that cedar planks impart to your grilled food. So, fire up the grill, grab some cedar planks, and get ready to impress your friends and family with your newfound grilling skills!

Share your tips and experiences with grilling on cedar planks in the Cooking Techniques forum section. Join the discussion on “How To Grill On Cedar Planks” and let’s explore this flavorful cooking method together!

FAQ:

What are cedar planks used for when grilling?

Cedar planks are used when grilling to infuse a smoky, aromatic flavor into the food. They also serve as a natural barrier between the food and the direct heat of the grill, helping to prevent the food from burning or sticking to the grill grates.

How do you prepare cedar planks for grilling?

Before grilling on cedar planks, it’s important to soak them in water for at least 1-2 hours. This helps prevent the wood from catching fire on the grill and allows it to release moisture and aromatic flavors as it heats up.

What types of food can be grilled on cedar planks?

Cedar planks are commonly used for grilling fish, such as salmon, trout, or tilapia. However, other foods like chicken, vegetables, and even fruits can also be grilled on cedar planks to impart a unique smoky flavor.

Can cedar planks be reused for grilling?

Yes, cedar planks can be reused for grilling, as long as they are still in good condition and have not been charred or burned through. After using, simply clean the plank with water and a brush, then allow it to dry thoroughly before using it again.

How do you grill on cedar planks?

To grill on cedar planks, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Once the plank is soaked and the grill is ready, place the food directly onto the plank and then place the plank on the grill. Close the lid and cook the food according to the recipe’s instructions, usually until it reaches the desired level of doneness.

What are the benefits of grilling on cedar planks?

Grilling on cedar planks imparts a unique smoky flavor to the food, adds moisture to the cooking process, and helps to prevent the food from sticking to the grill grates. Additionally, it can create a visually appealing presentation when serving the grilled food on the plank.

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