How to Use a Cedar Plank

Sure we have all heard about cedar planks but how do you actually use one? We've put together 4 super simple steps for using a cedar plank and pulled a fan favorite recipe for you to try.

Tips:
1. Make sure you have a Weber cedar plank.
2. Soak the plank in water for at least an hour in one of our large drip pans.
3. Prepare the grill for direct cooking over medium heat (350° to 450°F).
4. Place the soaked plank over direct medium heat and close the lid. After 5 to 10 minutes, when the plank begins to smoke and char, turn the plank over. Place whatever you are grilling on the charred side of the plank.

Now that you have the basic tips on how to use the plank, here is a great recipe for you to try out from Weber's Greatest Hits. Get more recipes from the book here.

Cedar-Planked Salmon with Hoisin-Mustard Glaze
by Jamie Purviance

The simplest route to an impressive seafood main may be this one, in which a whole salmon fillet is roasted on a cedar plank. The smoldering wood fills the inside of the grill with aromatic smoke, flavoring the fish as it gently cooks, and the dark, tangy glaze
of mustard-spiked hoisin sauce adds a perfect layer of complex flavors.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Grilling time: 15 to 25 minutes
Serves: 6 to 8

Ingredients:
Glaze:
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

1 skin-on whole salmon fillet, 2 to 21/2 pounds and about ¾ inch thick, any pin bones removed
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Soak an untreated cedar plank, about 16 by 8 inches, in water for at least 1 hour.

2. Prepare the grill for direct cooking over medium heat (350° to 450°F).

3. In a small bowl combine all the glaze ingredients and mix well. Place the salmon, skin side down, on a large cutting board. Cut the salmon in half lengthwise but do not cut through the skin. Then cut the salmon crosswise to make six to eight servings, again being careful not to cut through the skin. Brush the glaze evenly over the salmon flesh, brushing some of the glaze between the individual servings. Season evenly with the salt and pepper.

4. Brush the cooking grates clean. Place the soaked plank over direct medium heat and close the lid. After 5 to 10 minutes, when the plank begins to smoke and char, turn the plank over. Place the salmon pieces, skin side down, on the plank. Close the lid and cook until the salmon is lightly browned on the surface and opaque in the center but still moist, 15 to 25 minutes. Using sturdy tongs or spatulas, transfer the plank, with the salmon still on it, to a heatproof surface.

5. Serve the salmon on the plank, or plate individual servings by slipping a spatula between the skin and flesh. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Get more cedar plank inspiration here. Enjoy and grill on!