Cedar-Planked Char with Wood-Grilled Onions

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Are you ready for a grilling adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your friends?

Cedar-Planked Char with Wood-Grilled Onions
Servings
0

Method

  1. Prepare your grill with indirect heat by creating a hot fire on one side and leaving the other side without fire. If using a charcoal grill, soak 1 cup of wood chips or corncobs in water for at least 30 minutes and place them directly on the hot coals when ready to plank. If using a gas grill, place 1/2 cup of dry wood chips or corncobs in a smoker box or wrap them in aluminum foil with holes poked in it, then place the box or foil over direct heat at the back of the grill.

  2. Inside each fish, put 2 sprigs of tarragon, 2 sprigs of dill, 2 sprigs of parsley, and 2 stems of chives. Season the fish with salt and pepper. Place 2 fish on each plank.

  3. Brush olive oil onto the cut sides of the lemons and onions.

  4. Once you see the first hint of smoke, place the planks on the indirect side of the grill. Put the halved onions and lemons, cut side down, directly on the grate over the fire. Close the lid.

  5. After 2 or 3 minutes, check the lemons. If they have grill marks, remove them from the grill. The onions will take an additional 10 to 15 minutes and can be turned over after the first 10 to 12 minutes. Once nicely charred, remove the onions from the grill

About this recipe

Cedar-Planked Char with Wood-Grilled Onions: A Grilling Adventure

Are you ready for a grilling adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your friends? Look no further than cedar-planked char with wood-grilled onions. This dish combines the smoky flavors of cedar and the sweetness of wood-grilled onions to create a meal that will leave you wanting more.

The Beauty of Cedar Planking

Imagine the aroma of cedar wafting through the air as your char gently cooks on a wooden plank. The cedar infuses the fish with a subtle, smoky flavor that perfectly complements its natural richness. The result? A perfectly cooked piece of fish that is moist, flavorful, and oh-so-delicious.

Wood-Grilled Onions: A Sweet Symphony

While the char takes center stage, the wood-grilled onions provide a sweet and savory harmony that elevates the dish to new heights. The onions are cooked on the grill until they caramelize, releasing their natural sugars and creating a caramelized flavor profile that is simply irresistible.

Grilling Tips and Tricks

Now that you're excited to embark on this grilling adventure, let's dive into some tips and tricks to ensure your cedar-planked char with wood-grilled onions turns out perfectly.

Choosing the Right Cedar Plank

When selecting a cedar plank, opt for untreated, food-grade cedar. Soak the plank in water for at least one hour before grilling to prevent it from catching fire on the grill.

Preparing the Char

Before grilling, season the char with your favorite herbs and spices. Don't forget to score the skin to prevent it from curling during cooking.

Grilling Temperature

Aim for a grill temperature of around 400°F (200°C) for the perfect balance of smoky flavor and moist, flaky fish. Keep an eye on the char to prevent overcooking.

Wood Selection for Grilling Onions

Choose a hardwood variety like oak or hickory for grilling the onions. These woods provide a robust smoky flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the onions.

Ready to Tackle the Grill?

Now that you have all the information you need, it's time to fire up the grill and get cooking. Whether you're a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, cedar-planked char with wood-grilled onions is a dish that will impress everyone at your next gathering. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the grilling adventure begin!

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use a different type of wood instead of cedar for planking the char?

While cedar is traditionally used for planking fish, you can experiment with other hardwoods like maple or cherry for a different flavor profile.

. Can I use frozen char for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen char for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it completely before grilling.

. How long should I soak the cedar plank?

Soak the cedar plank in water for at least one hour before grilling to prevent it from catching fire on the grill.

. Can I grill the onions without a cedar plank?

Absolutely! If you don't have a cedar plank, you can grill the onions directly on the grill grates or in a grilling basket.

. Can I use a gas grill instead of charcoal?

Yes, you can use a gas grill instead of charcoal. Just make sure to preheat the grill and adjust the temperature accordingly.

. How long should I grill the char?

The grilling time will depend on the thickness of the char fillets. As a general rule, grill the char for about 10 minutes per inch of thickness.

. Can I add other vegetables to the grill?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus to the grill for a delicious and colorful side dish.

. Can I use this recipe for other types of fish?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe to other types of fish like salmon or trout. Just adjust the grilling time and seasonings accordingly.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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