Cedar Plank

Description Cedar planks are not your typical food ingredient. These are not something you'd find in your produce aisle, but rather in the grilling section of your local store. A cedar plank is a piece of untreated, kiln-dried cedar wood, often in the form of a thin, flat board. Its appearance is rustic and natural, with a rich, warm hue that varies from light to dark brown, and a grain pattern that's unique to each piece. The texture is smooth, yet sturdy, ready to withstand the heat of the grill. But it's the aroma that truly sets cedar planks apart - a distinctive, resinous scent that, when heated, infuses the food with a smoky, slightly sweet, and utterly unique flavor.

Primary Uses Cedar planks are primarily used for grilling, most famously with salmon, but they can also be used with other types of fish, chicken, vegetables, and even fruits. The plank is soaked in water before use, then placed on the grill to create a smoky environment that infuses the food with flavor. This method is a key component of Pacific Northwest cuisine in the United States, but it's also used in various forms across the globe. Beyond cooking, cedar wood has been used for centuries in boat-building, furniture-making, and even in aromatherapy for its calming properties.

History The use of cedar planks in cooking dates back to the indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest, who would tie freshly-caught salmon to large, water-soaked cedar boards, then slow-cook them over an open fire. This method not only imparted a unique flavor to the fish, but also preserved it for longer periods. Over time, this technique was adopted and adapted by settlers and has become a beloved tradition in the region. There are even legends that say the great salmon runs in the Northwest were gifts from the gods, and cooking them on cedar was a way to honor these divine gifts.

Nutritional Information While cedar planks themselves are not consumed and therefore do not contribute nutritional value to a meal, they do play a significant role in healthy cooking. Grilling on a cedar plank allows food to cook slowly and evenly, reducing the risk of charring and the formation of harmful compounds. Plus, because the food is infused with flavor from the wood, there's often less need for added fats or sodium. In a way, cedar planks can be seen as a tool for flavorful, health-conscious cooking, making them a worthy addition to any wholesome kitchen.