How to Make Cedar Planks for Grilling Fish

If you are looking to grill fish and you want a smoky, cooked in the outdoors flavor, you can grill you fish on cedar planks. Untreated cedar wood planks are sold at specialty cooking stores and at online retailers, however it is more economical to make your own. You can find untreated cedar wood at home and garden stores locally.

Supplies needed:

• Untreated cedar wood at least 1" thick


• Saw


• Sand paper


• Water soaking tub


• Cloth


• Grill

1. Cut your cedar wood to a size that will fit your grill. Basic sizes are between 12" to 24" long and 8" to 10" wide. The pieces should cover your complete grill surface.


2. Sand your cedar until it is completely smooth. You want to ensure there are no wood splinters that may be able to penetrate your food.


3. Wipe your planks clean. Remove any sawdust.


4. Soak your planks in a soaking tub. Your planks must be completely immersed in water for at least one hour.


5. Turn on your grill. Place your soaked planks on the grill and allow the planks to heat up by closing the grill lid. When the planks are ready to use, you will hear the wood crackling in the fire.


6. Place your seasoned fish on your planks. It is best to rub a small amount of oil on the fish to ensure they do not stick to the planks. While the fish is cooking you may need to spray the planks with additional water to help get the fish more blackened or charred. Typically the fish will not need to be flipped, you can leave your grill lid closed while cooking the fish. Cook time is generally 10 to 15 minutes per fish.


7. When you are finished with the planks you can remove them from the grill. You can reuse your planks until the surface has become rough and then the pieces can be reused in the charcoal once cut into small chunks.