Using a plank on the barbecue is synonymous with cedar-planked salmon. So much so, that it’s barely conceivable to cook anything other than salmon on cedar on a grill. There are so many other things that you can do with a plank and some fire. In this article, we’re going to explore the different ways of using planks to cook on the barbecue. Really, there are only three rules to follow and they’re very easy. Soak. Smoke. And Serve. Show
1. SoakPlanks, unlike wood chunks, need to be soaked for at least 30 minutes before being preheated or used on the barbecue. There are several reasons to prepare your plank or several planks by soaking.
There are several varieties of wood that can be used when planking. Cedar is just one option. Another common wood for planks is maple. For something even more unique, try our PRO Cedar Infusion Plank. The grooves hold your favorite liquid to enhance the meal. Imagine a smoky planked steak infused with a deep whiskey or red wine. 2. SmokeAlthough unnecessary, you can warm the plank on the grill during preheating. Unless it is otherwise called for, the indirect method of grilling will be used when using planks on the barbecue. That is when the two outside burners are lit, leaving the one(s) in the middle of the grill off. Preheat the grill to the desired temperature with or without the plank. If you placed the plank on the grill to preheat as well, transfer the food onto the plank and cook the food until it’s ready. Fish will be fast, chicken and steaks – anything thicker will take a bit longer, and roasts will take the longest. Use a digital meat thermometer, like the Napoleon Bluetooth Barbecue Thermometer, to ensure that it’s cooked.
3. ServeOnce the food is cooked, it’s time to eat it. Your food, fish, vegetables, pancakes, pasta, poultry, pork, beef, or anything else you can imagine will have a unique flavor from the aromatics found in the oils of the particular wood used. You can serve the food directly from the planks themselves if they’re not overly burnt or smoldering. However, if your plank is a tad on-fire-ish you may want to transfer your food to a serving platter or a fresh plank. Once the food is safely off the plank you can douse it in a bucket of water until completely cooled. Can you Reuse the Planks?Although there are many who feel that planks should not be reused, however, as long as they’re clean, a plank can be used. Once a plank or planks are completely cool, wash them using running water and a sponge or scrubby. Do not use soap as this can leave an unpleasant aftertaste on a plank. When clean, allow your plank to dry completely before returning to storage. If there are stubborn and stuck on bits, fine-grit sandpaper will take those off.
Plank Grilling Tips
When Should you Plank?Plank grilling is a great solution when you are looking to experience a different flavor than just barbecued or just smoked. Plank roasted food has a lighter smoky flavor than something that has been purely smoked. It also won’t have the crust of something that has been seared – unless you add that to your cooking process. Why Should you Plank?Why wouldn’t you? Adding plank grilling to your grilling repertoire is a great way to ensure that things don’t get boring. It creates a unique and flavorful meal. Eating planked food is delicious, smoke from the vanillans in the wood are transferred to the meal in a similar fashion to smoking, Where the food has been in contact with the plank will have a stronger flavor than elsewhere. Using a plank is also a striking way to serve food as well. What is your favorite plank grilling recipe? Share yours and your other planking stories and photos on our social pages, like Facebook and Instagram, using the hashtags #PlankGrilling and #NapoleonGrills. Happy Grilling! Are wood planks for grilling reusable?If you find that the plank is still in good condition (not a lot of char), you can reuse it according to Wildwood Grilling. Wash the plank with hot water (don't use soap, though) and store in the freezer. Be sure to use that plank with the same protein or ingredients the next time you grill.
How long do you soak wood planks for grilling?Soaking for 15 minutes in warm water is the optimal soaking time. The flavor infusion is most apparent after 15 minutes and does not increase with longer soaking times. So by the time your food is prepped and your grill is preheated, your planks should be ready to go!
Can you use wood planks on gas grill?And the great thing about planking on a gas grill is turning your propane-fueled gas grill into a wood-smoking-machine. The direct flames cause the plank to smolder, creating lots of delicious smoke. Tip: Make sure to keep the grill lid closed as much as possible to keep the smoke inside.
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