Grilling planks infuse seafood with subtle smoky notes while keeping delicate proteins moist. This guide reviews top cedar plank options designed for fish, salmon in particular, and explains what to look for when choosing planks for your grill. Each product below is evaluated for US-sourced wood, food safety, and suitability for different serving sizes.
| Product | Brand | Size | Made In / Sourcing | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More | Wildwood Grilling | Varies | USA | Smoky cedar flavor; easy to use and clean |
| Wildwood Grilling Signature 5” x 11” Cedar Planks (12-Pack) | Wildwood Grilling | 5″ x 11″ (12-pack) | USA | Delicate, earthy flavor; food-safe facility |
| Langxinese Bigger 12 PK, Cedar Planks | Langxinese | 11″ x 5.5″ | USA (Sourced/Manufactured) | Wider planks for even smoke; easy soaking |
| Bigger 12 Pack Premium Cedar Planks | CEDAR ALPHA | 11″ x 5.75″ | USA | Restaurant quantity; no chemicals or glues |
| Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks, XL 7×15, 8 Pack | Wildwood Grilling | 7″ x 15″ | USA | Large size fits full salmon fillet; authentic flavor |
12 Pack Cedar Planks for Grilling Salmon and More
These Western Red Cedar planks deliver a balanced smoky aroma ideal for salmon, pork, and grilled fruits or vegetables. The set emphasizes ease of use and cleanup, with QR-guided instructions on the package for quick setup. Each plank brings a visually pleasing presentation when serving directly on the plank.
Wildwood Grilling Signature Cedar Planks (12-Pack)
Made in the USA, these planks emphasize food safety in a facility that avoids chemicals or additives. The 5” x 11” size is convenient for 2–3 servings, making it ideal for small gatherings. The planks are designed to impart a delicate, earthy cedar flavor that complements seafood and vegetables alike.
Langxinese Cedar Planks, 12 Pack
Langxinese offers larger planks (11″ x 5.5″) to accommodate bigger portions. They are 100% natural, chemical-free, and sanded for a smooth surface. Soak the planks for 1–2 hours before use to maximize flavor and prevent charring.
Bigger 12 Pack Premium Cedar Planks
These 11″ x 5.75″ cedar planks are described as restaurant quantity with 0.3″ thickness. They emphasize no chemicals or glue, and the package notes that soaking for 1–2 hours helps maximize aroma and smoke during grilling. Suitable for salmon, meat, fish, and vegetables.
Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks XL 7×15
This larger plank size is designed to accommodate an entire fillet of salmon while infusing a strong smoky flavor. The product aligns with Native American-inspired grilling traditions and supports versatile seafood and vegetable usage for a robust tasting experience.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when choosing grilling planks for fish:
- Wood type and sourcing: Look for Western Red Cedar or other safe, food-grade woods. USA-made and locally sourced planks reduce the risk of contaminants.
- Size and portion fit: For a full salmon fillet, larger planks (7×15) work best; smaller planks suit 2–3 servings. Consider whether you need restaurant-scale quantity or family-sized packs.
- Thickness and heat tolerance: Thicker planks (around 0.3” to 0.33”) retain moisture longer and resist scorching, aiding even cooking.
- Safety and processing: Choose planks that are third-party tested for food safety and free from glues, fillers, or chemicals. Avoid overprocessing that could leave residues on foods.
- Reuse guidance: Most cedar planks are single-use for safety and flavor integrity. If a product allows reuse, ensure it remains free from char and off-flavors after initial use.
- Soaking and prep: Soak planks 1–2 hours before grilling to prevent burning and to maximize flavor diffusion; some products specify soaking times clearly in their instructions.
- Flavor profile: Cedar planks impart a mild, natural smoky sweetness. For stronger flavor, combine with fruit woods or use larger planks for longer exposure.
- Versatility: Beyond fish, many planks work well with vegetables, shellfish, or light meats. If you cook seafood often, consider a mixed pack to cover multiple meals.