Smoky Cedar-Infused Apple Glazed Salmon
This delightful Smoky Cedar-Infused Apple Glazed Salmon recipe blends the rich flavors of cedar wood with a sweet-and-spicy apple glaze, creating a dish that is both aromatic and mouthwatering. Using a cedar plank not only enhances the salmon with a natural smokiness but also allows for an elegant presentation. The sweet apple jelly, coupled with the zesty horseradish and tangy champagne vinegar, results in a glaze that perfectly complements the succulent salmon fillets. Whether grilled outdoors or baked in your oven, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Serve it directly on the cedar plank for a rustic touch that will impress your family and friends.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
salmon fillets
4 (6 ounces each) (skin removed)
apple jelly
2/3 cup (none)
prepared horseradish
4 tablespoons (none)
champagne vinegar
2 tablespoons (none)
fresh chives
2 tablespoons (finely chopped)
olive oil
3 tablespoons (none)
salt
to taste (none)
pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Soak the cedar plank in water for 2-3 hours to prevent it from catching fire and to enhance the smoky flavor it imparts to the salmon. Make sure the wood is fully submerged; use heavy objects to weigh it down if necessary.
2
In a medium bowl, whisk together the apple jelly, prepared horseradish, champagne vinegar, and finely chopped chives. Set the glaze aside for later use.
3
Once soaked, remove the cedar plank from the water and thoroughly dry it. Brush the top surface of the cedar plank with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and generously sprinkle with coarse or kosher salt.
4
Ensure the salmon fillets have the skin removed. If necessary, use a sharp knife to carefully run along the skin and peel it away from the fish. Brush the top of each salmon fillet with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season them generously with salt and pepper.
5
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or set your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using a grill, allow the cedar plank to heat for about 5 minutes or until it is slightly smoking, which will enhance the flavor.
6
Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the prepared cedar plank. Immediately brush a layer of the apple glaze over each fillet, then close the grill lid or place the plank in the oven.
7
After 5 minutes, brush another layer of glaze on the salmon, and repeat this process after another 5 minutes. Cook for a total of approximately 15 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque, flaky, and firm to the touch. Ensure it is not raw in the center but remains moist and tender.
8
Once cooked, serve the salmon directly on the cedar plank for an impressive presentation. Enjoy this flavorful dish with your choice of sides!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main flavor profile of Smoky Cedar-Infused Apple Glazed Salmon?
The dish features a blend of natural wood smokiness from cedar, a sweet apple glaze, and a zesty kick from horseradish.
How long should I soak the cedar plank?
You should soak the cedar plank in water for 2-3 hours before cooking to prevent it from burning and to release smoky flavors.
Why is it important to weigh down the cedar plank during soaking?
Weighing down the plank ensures it is fully submerged in water, allowing for even absorption.
What ingredients are used to make the apple glaze?
The glaze is made from apple jelly, prepared horseradish, champagne vinegar, and finely chopped fresh chives.
Should the skin be left on the salmon fillets?
No, the recipe specifies that the skin should be removed from the salmon fillets before cooking.
How do I prepare the cedar plank after soaking?
Once dried, brush the top surface with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle generously with coarse or kosher salt.
What oven temperature is required for this recipe?
The oven should be preheated to 400°F (200°C).
Can this recipe be prepared on a grill?
Yes, you can use a grill set to medium-high heat.
How long do I heat the cedar plank on the grill before adding the fish?
Allow the plank to heat for about 5 minutes or until it is slightly smoking.
How much salmon is needed for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 salmon fillets, each weighing approximately 6 ounces.
How do I season the salmon fillets?
Brush the fillets with olive oil and season them generously with salt and pepper before placing them on the plank.
When should I apply the apple glaze to the salmon?
Apply a layer immediately after placing the salmon on the plank, and then again at the 5-minute and 10-minute marks during cooking.
What is the total cooking time for the salmon?
The salmon typically takes about 15 minutes to cook until opaque and flaky.
How can I tell if the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon should be opaque, flaky, and firm to the touch, ensuring it is no longer raw in the center.
What type of vinegar is recommended for the glaze?
Champagne vinegar is used to provide a tangy complement to the sweet apple jelly.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
For an impressive rustic presentation, serve the salmon directly on the cedar plank.
Can I substitute the fresh chives?
While fresh chives are recommended for flavor, you can use dried chives if necessary, though the quantity may need adjustment.
What kind of oil should be used?
The recipe specifically uses olive oil for both the plank preparation and the salmon fillets.
Is the apple glaze spicy?
The glaze has a zesty kick due to the 4 tablespoons of prepared horseradish, providing a sweet-and-spicy balance.
Does the cedar plank provide flavor in the oven?
Yes, even in an oven, the heated cedar plank releases aromatic wood notes that infuse into the fish.
How much apple jelly is required?
The recipe requires 2/3 cup of apple jelly.
How many tablespoons of horseradish are used?
The recipe calls for 4 tablespoons of prepared horseradish.
Can I use any type of salt?
Coarse or kosher salt is recommended for seasoning the cedar plank.
Should I dry the cedar plank before oiling it?
Yes, remove the plank from the water and dry it thoroughly before brushing it with olive oil.
What tool is best for removing the salmon skin?
Use a sharp knife to run carefully along the skin and peel it away from the fish.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The recipe is designed for 4 individual salmon fillets, serving approximately 4 people.
What should the salmon look like when it's done?
It should be flaky and firm, while still remaining moist and tender.
Is this recipe suitable for entertaining guests?
Yes, the unique cedar plank presentation and aromatic glaze make it an ideal dish for dinner parties.
What provides the acidity in the glaze?
The champagne vinegar provides the necessary tanginess to balance the glaze.
Can I use other types of wood planks?
This recipe is specifically designed for cedar to achieve the signature smoky-cedar flavor profile.