Roasting a whole salmon on a cedar plank is a classic method that adds a smoky flavor to the fish, making it a spectacular dish for gatherings. Here's a detailed recipe to guide you through the process:
Ingredients
1 whole salmon (about 4 to 5 pounds), gutted and scaled
1 cedar plank (large enough to hold the salmon)
2 lemons, thinly sliced
1 bunch fresh dill
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Optional: garlic cloves, thinly sliced, and additional herbs like thyme or rosemary
Equipment
Outdoor grill
Aluminum foil (optional, for easier cleanup)
Preparation
Cedar Plank Soaking:
Soak the cedar plank in water for at least 1 to 2 hours before grilling to prevent it from burning. 2. Salmon Preparation:
Rinse the salmon under cold running water and pat dry with paper towels.
Check for any remaining scales and remove them.
Make shallow diagonal cuts along the sides of the salmon to allow the heat and flavors to penetrate more deeply. 3. Seasoning:
Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the salmon.
Generously season the inside and outside of the salmon with salt and black pepper.
Place lemon slices and fresh dill (and other herbs if using) inside the cavity of the salmon.
If you like, insert slices of garlic and additional lemon slices into the cuts made on the sides of the salmon.
Cooking
Prepare the Grill:
Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F).
If your grill has a temperature gauge, aim to maintain this temperature throughout the cooking process. 2. Grilling:
Place the soaked cedar plank on the grill and close the lid.
Heat the plank for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until it starts to smoke and crackle.
Place the salmon on the plank, skin side down.
Cover the grill and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the fish. 3. Serving:
Carefully remove the cedar plank from the grill using grill gloves or a spatula.
Transfer the salmon to a serving platter, gently removing the skin if preferred.
Garnish with additional fresh herbs and lemon slices.
Optional Serving Suggestions
Serve the roasted salmon with a side of grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or a creamy dill sauce.
For a festive touch, accompany the dish with chilled white wine or sparkling water with a twist of lemon.
This recipe highlights the natural flavors of the salmon enhanced by the smoky aroma of the cedar, perfect for a special occasion like Mother's Day or a family BBQ. Enjoy your meal!
Don't forget to book your Professional BBQ Cleaning Service to make sure your BBQ performs properly, with no flare-ups or grease fires that can burn your food, before putting the hard work into cooking this recipe.