The Brew : Cedar Plank Salmon

A few months back I was on the far coast of BC doing some surfing and fishing. Though we were fishing for halibut, we ended up catching some beautiful spring salmon instead. So I thought I would share my favorite way of preparing salmon… the manliest way I could think of…on wood. Cooking the salmon on a cedar plank infuses the fish with the most glorious, earthy taste. Add to that the fresh and tangy herb topping, and a drizzle of creamy cucumber dill sauce and you’ve got yourself a crowd-pleaser.

Here is my recipe for Cedar Plank Salmon... Do try. It’s awesome.

First step… go fishing. ;)... thats me holding the tiny pathetic ones.

The Recipe (printable version here)

Ingredients

1 untreated Cedar plank

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2 Shallots, diced

10 Cloves garlic, minced

3 Tbsp (45 ml) snipped fresh dill

3 Tbsp (45 ml) chopped fresh thyme

2 Tbsp (30 ml) chopped fresh cilantro (or more if you like it)

2 Tbsp (30 ml) lemon zest

2 green onions, chopped

1 tsp (5 ml) Olive Oil

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3-4 lb. Salmon fillet

Salt and freshly ground Pepper to taste

Cucumber Dill Sauce:

¼ English cucumber

¼ tsp (1 ml) Salt

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1 cup (250 ml) plain yogurt

½ cup (125 ml) sour cream

1 tsp. (5 ml) lemon juice

Pepper to taste

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3 green onions finely chopped, white part only

2 tsp (10 ml) chopped fresh dill

Preparation Instructions

Soak cedar plank in water for several hours. The longer the better.

In a small bowl, combine shallots, garlic, dill, thyme, cilantro, lemon zest and juice, green onions and olive oil. Cover and place in the fridge for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to do their thing and get super tasty. ;)

Place your beautiful salmon on a cedar plank and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cover the salmon with the herb mixture.

Set the plank on the preheated BBQ and close the lid. Cook for 30 mins on medium to high heat, until the fish flakes easily with a fork… depending on how well-done you like your salmon. (I like mine a little more rare).