How to Cook Cedar Plank Salmon on Big Green Egg

If you’re craving a delicious and healthy meal, look no further than cooking cedar plank salmon on your Big Green Egg. This method locks in the natural flavors and adds a subtle smokiness to the fish.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the simple steps of selecting the perfect cedar plank, preparing the salmon, and getting your Big Green Egg ready for cooking.

Get ready to impress your taste buds with this mouthwatering dish!

Selecting the Cedar Plank

You’ll want to make sure you’re selecting a cedar plank that is untreated and food safe for cooking your salmon on the Big Green Egg. Choosing the right wood is essential for achieving that delicious smoky flavor that cedar plank salmon is known for. Cedar planks are popular for grilling because they impart a unique taste to the fish, enhancing its natural flavors.

When it comes to cooking with cedar planks, there are several benefits to consider. Firstly, cedar planks add a rich and earthy aroma to the salmon, creating a mouthwatering experience for your taste buds. The wood also helps to keep the fish moist and tender by providing a protective barrier between the salmon and the direct heat of the grill. This allows for even cooking and prevents the fish from drying out.

Additionally, cedar planks can be reused multiple times, making them a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice. After each use, simply brush off any remaining debris and store the plank in a cool, dry place until your next grilling session.

Preparing the Salmon

To get your salmon ready, start by marinating it in a flavorful mixture of herbs and spices. This will add depth and enhance the natural flavors of the fish. Begin by mixing together your desired herbs and spices such as dill, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, making sure to coat each piece evenly. Let the salmon marinate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the fish.

While the salmon is marinating, prepare your grill. Preheat it to medium-high heat and make sure the grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking. Once the grill is hot, carefully place the marinated salmon fillets on the cedar plank. This will infuse the fish with a smoky flavor and prevent it from sticking to the grill.

Grill the salmon for about 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Once cooked, remove the cedar plank from the grill and let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving.

Soaking the Cedar Plank

While soaking the cedar plank, make sure to submerge it completely in water for at least one hour to ensure it remains moist during the grilling process. Soaking the cedar plank is an important step in preparing it for grilling techniques. The moisture from the soaked plank helps to create a flavorful and moist environment for cooking the salmon.

Cedar planks are a popular choice for grilling salmon because they infuse a smoky and aromatic flavor into the fish. However, if you don’t have access to cedar planks, there are alternative wood planks you can use. Maple, alder, and cherry wood planks are all great options that will impart their own unique flavors to the salmon.

To soak the cedar plank, simply submerge it in a container of water, making sure it is completely covered. Let it soak for at least one hour, but if you have the time, you can leave it in the water for up to four hours. This will ensure that the plank is thoroughly saturated and won’t catch fire on the grill.

Once the plank is soaked, remove it from the water and pat it dry. You are now ready to grill your salmon on the cedar plank, using the big green egg or any other grill of your choice. Soaking the cedar plank is a simple yet crucial step in achieving delicious and moist grilled salmon.

Preparing the Big Green Egg

When using the cedar plank for grilling, it’s important to properly prepare the Big Green Egg by adjusting the vents to control the airflow and temperature. Here’s how you can season the Big Green Egg and maintain the temperature for optimal grilling:

• Seasoning the Big Green Egg:

• Before your first use, remove any packaging materials and clean the inside of the grill with a mild soap and water solution.

• Rinse thoroughly and allow the grill to dry completely.

• Apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the interior surface of the grill, including the grates.

• Heat the grill to about 400°F (200°C) and let it burn for about 30 minutes.

• This process helps to remove any manufacturing residues and creates a non-stick surface for future cooking.

• Maintaining temperature on the Big Green Egg:

• Start by opening the bottom vent fully and the top vent halfway. This allows for a good amount of airflow.

• Monitor the temperature using a thermometer and adjust the vents accordingly.

• To increase the temperature, open the vents wider. To decrease the temperature, close them partially.

• It’s important to make small adjustments to the vents and allow a few minutes for the temperature to stabilize before making further changes.

Cooking the Cedar Plank Salmon

For the best results, you’ll want to preheat the grill to the recommended temperature before placing your seasoned salmon on it. Cooking cedar plank salmon on a Big Green Egg is a delicious and flavorful way to enjoy this popular fish. Here are some cooking techniques and grilling tips to help you achieve the perfect cedar plank salmon.

First, soak the cedar plank in water for at least one hour prior to grilling. This will prevent the wood from burning and add a subtle smoky flavor to the fish. While the plank is soaking, prepare the salmon by seasoning it with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices.

Once the grill is preheated, place the soaked cedar plank directly on the grates. Close the lid and let the plank heat up for a few minutes. This will create a smoky environment for the salmon to cook in.

After the plank has heated up, carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets directly onto the plank. Close the lid and let the salmon cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Remember to keep an eye on the salmon to prevent it from overcooking.

Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. The cedar plank will give the fish a delicious smoky flavor, while keeping it moist and tender.

Adding Flavor and Seasoning

To enhance the flavor of your grilled salmon, try adding a variety of seasonings and spices to create a delicious and unique taste. Here are some tips to help you take your grilled salmon to the next level:

• Marinades: Marinating your salmon before grilling can infuse it with incredible flavor. Try a citrus-based marinade with lemon or lime juice, garlic, and herbs like dill or thyme. Let the salmon marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the fish.

• Dry Rubs: A dry rub is a mixture of spices that can be applied directly to the salmon before grilling. Create your own blend using ingredients like paprika, cumin, chili powder, and brown sugar. Rub the mixture onto the salmon and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

• Grilling Techniques: To maximize flavor, consider using indirect grilling. This involves placing the salmon on a cooler part of the grill and cooking it slowly over indirect heat. This helps to retain moisture and prevents the fish from drying out.

Serving and Enjoying the Cedar Plank Salmon

Now that you’ve mastered the art of cooking cedar plank salmon on the Big Green Egg, it’s time to think about the perfect accompaniments to serve alongside your delicious fish.

Tasty side dishes can elevate your meal and provide a variety of flavors and textures to complement the salmon. Additionally, considering wine pairings can add another layer of sophistication to your dining experience, enhancing the flavors of both the food and the wine.

Let’s explore some mouthwatering side dishes and wine options that will take your cedar plank salmon to the next level.

Tasty Side Dishes

If you’re looking for a delicious side dish to pair with cedar plank salmon on the Big Green Egg, try roasted garlic mashed potatoes. The creamy texture and rich flavor of the potatoes complement the smoky taste of the grilled salmon perfectly.

Here are some ideas to take your mashed potatoes to the next level:

• Add roasted garlic: Roasting garlic brings out its natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor to the mashed potatoes.

• Incorporate grilled vegetables: Chop up some grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, and mix them into the mashed potatoes for added texture and freshness.

• Top with herbs and cheese: Sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives, and a handful of grated cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, over the mashed potatoes for an extra burst of flavor.

These roasted garlic mashed potatoes will elevate your cedar plank salmon meal to a whole new level of deliciousness. Enjoy!

Wine Pairings

For the perfect wine pairing with your grilled salmon, consider a crisp and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc. This white wine’s citrus notes and high acidity complement the rich flavors of the grilled salmon, creating a harmonious combination that will delight your taste buds.

When it comes to alternative cooking methods for salmon, besides grilling, you can also try baking, broiling, or pan-searing. Baking salmon in the oven is a simple and convenient option that results in moist and tender fish.

Broiling is a quick and easy method that gives the salmon a nice charred crust. Pan-searing salmon in a hot skillet with some butter or oil creates a delicious crispy skin.

Whichever cooking method you choose, be sure to have a glass of Sauvignon Blanc on hand to enhance the flavors of your grilled salmon.

Conclusion

So there you have it, a quick and easy way to cook cedar plank salmon on your Big Green Egg.

By following these simple steps and taking the time to prepare the cedar plank and salmon properly, you can enjoy a delicious and flavorful meal.

Don’t forget to add your favorite seasonings and flavors to enhance the taste.

Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or simply enjoying a meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress.

So fire up that Big Green Egg and get cooking!