Cedar planks are popular for grilling meat, birds, and vegetables to impart a special smoky flavor. Yes, cedar planks are reusable, but it largely depends on the condition it is in after each use.
It is a common practice in using cedar plant planks for grilling. The taste of food because grilling in cedar plants is a major attraction. Therefore, to enable you to use the plank several times, proper care is essential during use and cleaning after use. Let us what steps to in the choice and maintenance of grilling cedar planks for t to be reusable.
Types Of Plank
Now that we know the planking meat, fish or vegetables creates a special flavor in food, you must find the plank that is the best. Different kinds of wood infuse different flavors into the food.
Cedar is a widely use plank wood for grilling as it produces a smoky flavor a favorite of many. The grilling of seafood, pork, vegetable, and tofu go well with cedar planks. Cedar also imparts a gentle flavor.
With a little experience, you will get to know which plank pairs with what kind of food. However, there are grill masters who can help you make the choice.
The Standard Size Of The Plank
The size of the plank would depend on the usual size of food you grill. The size of the food covers the plank and does not hang out. The usual size is 5×11 inches for planking three pieces of 6 ounces salmon.
As you cook the food straight on the wood, it must be perfectly clean. The plank you plan to buy should be durable so you can use it several times.
How To Cook In Cedar Planks
Let us now look at the way on how to cook on cedar planks. The cedar plank needs to be soaked in a container of water for 20 minutes. Add a weight on the plank so it is underwater.
Preheat the grill or the oven to 204° C. Place the food on the dripped-out plank. Add the plank with the food on the grill. Close the lid of the grill and let it cook for 12 to 15 minutes if you are grilling a salmon fillet of 2 pounds. The closure of the lid will retain the smoky flavor. Remove the food in a platter and enjoy the exquisite smoky salmon made in cedar plank.
Can You Reuse Cedar Planks?
Too much charring of the hardwoods of Cedar planks may cause no condition to reuse. If you place food in the plank with more uncovered parts, those parts will be more charred or burnt. The Cedar plank charred on the top and bottom is not usable for grilling again.
The same is true for oven grilling although the chance of charring is much less in ovens as there is no direct flame.
Take care that charring is the least to enable you to use Cedar planks a number of times.
How To Make Cedar Planks Reusable
Because of the cost of Cedar planks, you would like to use the plank a few times until you discard it. Reusing depends on the condition of the plank after the first use. If you follow some instructions on how to maintain the plank, you may save from buying new ones often.
After using, wash the plank with warm water making sure that no residues of food are clinging to the wood. Do not use soap. Store the plank in the freezer.
- It is preferable to use the same food for a particular plank. It is not favorable to have the flavor of one food with the other, as the Cedar planks have a residual effect.
- It is best to use the Cedar plank in an indirect flame if you are using a grill. Direct flame chars the plank.
- Cover the entire plank with food to avoid charring the exposed parts.
- The use of some oil in cooking reduces charring, although the flavor may be minimum.
Foods To Prepare On Cedar Planks
Cedar plank cooking does not restrict the type of food. You can cook anything and everything to give you a delicious smoky flavor. Here are some you can try, and experience.
Chicken and Pork
The white meat like the chicken and pork is suitable for Cedar plank cooking. Unlike direct grill cooking, the natural juice of the meat remains added with a flavor of the fresh wood.
Seafood
Salmon is a universal item grilled in Cedar planks. Cooking salmon in Cedar plank is popular among Native Americans. The plank is prepared by soaking in water. On heating, the moist wood produces the aroma of the wood and instills in the salmon as it cooks. Cedar wood flavored salmon is a delight.
Shellfish and Fish
Any fish and shellfish create a delicious taste in the planking. After placing in the plank, it should stay in the hot grill for about 20 minutes. On covering the grill, the flavor does not escape. The shellfish, like prawn, lobster, etc. is ready after 10 minutes.
Vegetables
The vegetables good for Cedar plank cooking are carrots, asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, and mushroom. You may season your vegetables the way you like. Planking takes only 10 minutes.
Red meat, lamb, and cheese are all suitable for Cedar plank cooking on the grill. The time to cook however will differ for each of the items. The juicy taste and the smoky flavor are equally good for Cedar plank grilled food diners.
Also Read: Can You Use Parchment Paper Again?
FAQ
Q1: Are cedar planks reusable?
A1: Yes, cedar planks can be reused multiple times, depending on their condition and how well they are cared for.
Q2: How many times can I reuse a cedar plank?
A2: The number of times a cedar plank can be reused varies based on factors like thickness, quality, and maintenance. On average, a cedar plank can be reused around 3 to 5 times, but some well-maintained planks may last even longer.
Q3: How should I care for cedar planks to ensure reusability?
A3: To maximize the lifespan of cedar planks, it is important to clean them thoroughly after each use. Scrub off any food residue, rinse with water, and let them air dry. Avoid using soap or harsh detergents, as they can alter the natural flavors the cedar imparts. Additionally, storing the planks in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, can help prevent warping and maintain their integrity.
Q4: When should I retire a cedar plank?
A4: Cedar planks should be retired when they become excessively charred or warped, as this can affect their performance and increase the risk of splintering. If you notice cracks or significant wear and tear, it’s best to replace the plank to ensure safe and optimal cooking results.
Q5: Can I reuse cedar planks for different types of food?
A5: Yes, you can reuse cedar planks for different types of food, as long as you clean them thoroughly between uses. However, it’s worth noting that the flavors and aromas absorbed by the plank from previous uses may subtly influence the taste of subsequent dishes. If you want to maintain the distinct flavors of different foods, it’s advisable to designate specific planks for particular types of cuisine.
Final Verdict
Cedar planks are reusable grilling planks that do a great job in producing fragrance, and smoky flavor combined with the original taste of the food planked.
Planking and grilling food in Cedar planks is appreciable for grilled food lovers for the unique flavor the wood imparts to the dish. Although other woods are in use as planks, Cedar plank is the most popular. Hope you enjoy Cedar plank grilled food!
Leave a Reply