Can You Reuse Cedar Planks For Salmon? Answered

Last Updated on April 15, 2024 by Shari Mason

If you happen to share my love for salmon and want to enhance the flavor and aroma of your next barbecue, consider using cedar planks. It is a great option!

Cedar planks are often used for cooking salmon and other types of fish, and they impart a smoky and woody flavor to the fish. But what if you want to reuse your cedar planks? 

This article will explore the do’s and don’ts of reusing cedar planks for cooking salmon. 

We’ll look at how to clean and store the planks properly, how to tell when it’s time to replace them, and other tips to ensure your salmon is cooked to perfection every time.

Is It Okay To Reuse Cedar Planks For Salmon?

Yes, it is okay to reuse cedar planks [1] for salmon as long as it is still in good shape. Cedar planks are an excellent way to infuse flavor and moisture into salmon, and grilling on a cedar plank is simple. 

Reusing the planks is a great way to save time and money, and it is also a great way to contribute to sustainability. Cedar planks are naturally durable, retaining their flavor and moisture even after multiple uses. 

“Like a seasoned storyteller, a well-used cedar plank shares its flavorful tales with each encounter of succulent salmon, adding depth and character to every culinary chapter.”

Eat Pallet Restaurant & Food Advice

As long as you take proper care to clean and store the planks after each use, reusing them should be no problem. When reusing cedar planks, it is important to consider the type of wood that you are using. 

Cedar is a softwood, so it is important to ensure that the planks are not cracked, warped, or otherwise damaged.

If there are any cracks or chips, the plank should be discarded, as these could potentially cause splinters that could be hazardous. 

Read: Cooking Salmon On A Pit Boss Pellet Grill

Do’s And Dont’s Of Reusing Cedar Planks For Cooking Salmon

DO’s: 

1. Soak the cedar plank in water for up to 4-6 hours before cooking. 
2. Preheat the grill before placing the soaked cedar plank on it. 
3. Brush the cedar plank with oil or melted butter before laying the salmon fillet on it. 
4. Grill the salmon on medium heat for 10-15 minutes, then flip it over. 
5. Brush the salmon with more oil or butter while grilling. 
6. Check the salmon for doneness with a fork. 
7. Remove the cedar plank and let it cool before discarding it. 

Read: How To Cook Salmon On A Traeger?

DON’Ts: 

1. Do not oversoak the cedar plank, as it will absorb too much water and cause the wood to swell and crack. 
2. Do not use the cedar plank in a high-heat setting, as it can cause the plank to catch fire. 
3. Do not leave the cedar plank on the grill for too long, as it can burn and give off an unpleasant smell. 
4. Do not try to reuse the cedar plank after it has been burnt or charred.

Read: How Much Salmon Per Person?

How To Properly Clean And Store Cedar Planks

To properly clean and store cedar planks, start by rinsing the planks with warm water and a gentle dishwashing liquid. Scrub the planks with a brush and rinse them with fresh water. 

“If our salmon are not healthy, then our watersheds are not healthy-and. If our watersheds our not healthy, then we have truly squandered our heritage and mortgaged our future.”

– John Kitzhaber, Former Governor Of Oregon

Allow them to dry completely before storing them away. When storing, wrap the planks in a dry cloth or paper towel and place them in a dry, cool place. 

It is also recommended to store them in a sealed container to help protect them from moisture.

How To Tell When It’s Time To Replace Cedar Planks

When it’s time to replace cedar planks, you’ll want to look for signs of decay, warping, mold, or insect damage. If any of these are present, the plank should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent further damage. 

You should also check the planks for signs of fading or discoloration, as this could indicate that the wood can no longer properly protect the surface it’s covering. 

Finally, if the planks are more than five years old, replacing them is generally recommended to ensure the best results.

Tips On How To Perfectly Cook Your Salmon

Start seasoning the fillet with salt and pepper to cook your salmon perfectly. Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. 

Once the oil is hot, carefully place the salmon [2] in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes. Flip the salmon over and cook for another 2-3 minutes. 

To check for doneness, insert a fork into the thickest part of the salmon and look for an internal temperature of 145°F. 

Remove from heat and let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving. 

FAQs

In Conclusion

Cedar planks are an excellent way to add flavor to salmon. They can be used more than once as long as they are properly cleaned and stored after each use. 

However, it is recommended to only use a plank a maximum of four times before replacing it. This will ensure the plank is free of bacteria and will continue to impart the desired flavor to the salmon.

References:

1. https://www.homedepot.com/b/Lumber-Composites-Boards-Planks-Panels-Appearance-Boards-Softwood-Boards-Cedar-Boards/N-5yc1vZ1z18gp7
2. https://www.britannica.com/animal/salmon