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What’s Cooking: Maple Glazed Cedar Plank Salmon

By Zach Nadler·

Show Notes

Cedar Plank Maple Glazed Salmon: A Sweet and Savory BBQ Delight

Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and try something special. Our Cedar Plank Maple Glazed Salmon is a real crowd pleaser that combines the sweet taste of maple with the smoky flavor of cedar plank grilling. This recipe creates a beautiful candy-like coating on the salmon while maintaining that delicious BBQ taste everyone loves.

Why Cedar Plank Salmon?

Cooking salmon on a cedar plank isn't just about presentation—it infuses the fish with a subtle, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet maple glaze. The plank also helps keep the salmon moist and prevents it from sticking to the grill.

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  • Fresh salmon fillet (about 1.5-2 lbs)
  • Pure maple syrup
  • Soy sauce
  • Garlic (minced)
  • Fresh ginger (grated)
  • Brown sugar
  • Black pepper
  • Cedar plank (soaked in water or wine for at least 2 hours)

    • Equipment

  • Outdoor grill
  • Cedar grilling plank
  • Basting brush
  • Small saucepan

    • Preparation Steps

  • Soak the cedar plank: This is crucial! Soak your cedar plank in water for at least 2 hours before grilling. This prevents it from catching fire and helps create that signature smoky flavor.
  • Make the maple glaze: In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and brown sugar. Simmer over medium heat until slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon dry and season with black pepper. Place it skin-side down on the soaked cedar plank.
  • Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F). Place the cedar plank with the salmon directly on the grill grates and close the lid.
  • Glaze and cook: After about 10 minutes, begin basting the salmon with the maple glaze every 5 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (typically 20-25 minutes total).
  • Finish with extra glaze: In the final minutes of cooking, apply one last generous coating of glaze to create that beautiful candy-like finish.

    • Serving Suggestions

    This maple glazed salmon pairs beautifully with:

  • Grilled asparagus or green beans
  • Wild rice pilaf
  • Fresh garden salad
  • Roasted baby potatoes

    • Pro Tips

  • Don't skip soaking the plank: A dry cedar plank can catch fire and ruin your meal.
  • Watch the temperature: Keep your grill at a consistent medium-high heat. Too hot and the glaze will burn; too low and the salmon won't cook properly.
  • Make extra glaze: The glaze is so delicious, you'll want extra to drizzle over your sides!
  • Check for doneness: Salmon should be opaque and flake easily. Don't overcook or it will become dry.

    • Why This Recipe Works

    The magic of this dish lies in the balance of flavors. The natural sweetness of maple syrup caramelizes on the grill, creating that candy coating effect. The soy sauce adds umami depth and saltiness that balances the sweetness. The cedar plank contributes a gentle smokiness that ties everything together without overwhelming the delicate salmon.

    This recipe has been a hit at countless summer gatherings, and once you try it, you'll understand why. It's elegant enough for a dinner party but easy enough for a weeknight meal.

    Watch the Full Recipe

    Want to see this recipe in action? Check out the full video tutorial where we walk you through every step of the process. You'll see exactly how to prepare the plank, create the perfect glaze consistency, and achieve that beautiful caramelized finish.

    Happy grilling! 🍁🐟