Air Frying Cedar Planks: Is It Possible?

Cooking salmon on a cedar plank in an air fryer is a great way to add a smoky flavor to your fish. The natural oils released from the cedar plank infuse the salmon, and the plank also keeps the fish away from direct heat, preventing overcooking. Before cooking, the plank should be soaked in cold water for at least two hours, then patted dry. The salmon can then be seasoned and placed on the plank, and cooked for around 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet. This method of cooking salmon is not only delicious but also healthy, as it doesn't require any additional oil or fat.

Soaking the cedar plank

Soaking Time and Temperature

Soak your cedar plank in warm water for 15 minutes. This is the optimal soaking time, as it provides the most flavour infusion without taking too long. The flavour doesn't increase with longer soaking times, so 15 minutes is the perfect balance.

Soaking the plank is essential for two reasons. Firstly, it helps to create that delicious, juicy, smoky flavour in your food. The water evaporates from the plank as it heats up, infusing your meal with that distinctive aroma. Secondly, it's a safety precaution. If you don't soak your plank, you run the risk of it catching fire in the air fryer, as it is essentially a dry piece of wood in a hot, enclosed space.

Preparing Multiple Planks

If you want to have soaked planks ready for future use, you can soak several at once and then freeze them. Place them in a freezer bag, with parchment paper between the planks to prevent them from freezing together. When you're ready to use one, simply take it out of the freezer and it's good to go!

Oven-Planking

If you're considering using your oven instead of an air fryer, the same rules apply. Always soak your plank, and place it on the top rack with an aluminium foil-lined baking sheet on the bottom rack to catch any drippings.

Safety First

Remember, cedar planks can be a fire hazard, especially if they are not soaked before use. Always exercise caution when cooking with them, and never use wax paper or paper towels with your air fryer, as these can also ignite.

Size of the cedar plank

The size of the cedar plank is an important consideration when using an air fryer. Before attempting to cook with a cedar plank, it is crucial to check your air fryer's user manual to ensure that it is safe to do so with your specific model.

Firstly, you need to ensure that the cedar plank fits inside your air fryer basket. If the plank is too large, you may need to trim it down or purchase a plank specifically designed to fit your fryer's size. It is worth noting that some sources recommend using a good-quality, thicker plank, as thin ones may be more likely to overheat and pose a safety risk.

Secondly, the size of the plank will also impact the cooking process. A larger plank will provide a more stable surface for your food, especially if you are cooking multiple pieces. It is important to ensure that there is space between each fillet or item of food, so air can circulate properly and cook everything evenly.

Additionally, the size of the plank can affect the soaking process. Soaking the plank is an essential step to prevent it from catching fire and to add moisture for steaming, which enhances the flavour of the food. Depending on the size of the plank, you may need to soak it in a large bowl, the sink, or even the air fryer basket itself (if there are no electrical parts). Weighing the plank down with a small bowl or plate during soaking can help ensure it stays fully submerged.

In summary, when using a cedar plank in an air fryer, it is important to choose a plank that fits your specific model and allows for proper airflow during cooking. The size of the plank will also impact the soaking process, so it is crucial to plan accordingly.

Air fryer temperature

When converting an oven-cooked recipe to an air fryer, it is generally recommended to reduce the temperature by 25°F to 50°F. For instance, if an oven recipe calls for a temperature of 425°, the air fryer temperature should be set to 400° at the highest. It is also important to note that cook time is usually reduced by about 20% when using an air fryer instead of an oven.

For fried foods, such as chicken wings, the air fryer can produce tasty results with less oil. A temperature of 390° and a timer for 25 minutes is a good starting point for fried chicken. Flipping the chicken and spraying it with vegetable oil halfway through the cooking process can help achieve a crispy exterior while maintaining juiciness.

For breaded items that need to be extra crispy, such as fried chicken, a temperature of 400° is recommended. A spritz of cooking spray can also help achieve the desired crispness. Prepackaged frozen foods, like french fries, may require pausing and shaking the basket once or twice during cooking to ensure even exposure to hot air.

Additionally, when cooking dishes with multiple ingredients, such as stir-fries or grain bowls, it is advisable to use an oven-safe cake insert, foil pan, or bowl to prevent small pieces from falling through the air fryer basket. Cooking the grains ahead of time and adding them to the pan with veggies and herbs before placing them directly in the basket is a good practice.

Cooking time

Once the air fryer is preheated, place the soaked cedar plank inside and add the seasoned salmon fillet. Cook for approximately 10-12 minutes for a 4-ounce fillet, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. For thicker fillets, you may need to cook for up to 15 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in color.

It is worth noting that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the salmon fillet and the desired level of doneness. Therefore, it is always a good idea to keep an eye on the salmon while it is cooking and adjust the timing as needed. Additionally, make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines for your specific air fryer model.

When cooking with a cedar plank in an air fryer, it is important to ensure that the plank is the correct size to fit inside the air fryer basket. The plank should be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours before cooking to prevent it from catching fire and to create a moist cooking environment. This will help to infuse the food with a smoky flavor and prevent it from drying out.

Safety considerations

When using a cedar plank in an air fryer, there are several safety considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to ensure that the cedar plank is properly prepared before use. This includes soaking the plank in cold water for at least two hours, as mentioned in the sources. This step is crucial as it prevents the wood from catching fire and creating excessive smoke. Therefore, do not forget to soak the plank and for the right duration.

Secondly, always pat the plank dry with a paper towel after soaking and before placing it in the air fryer. This will help reduce the amount of smoke generated during cooking. Additionally, be cautious when adding any additional flavourings to the plank, such as olive oil, herbs, or spices. While these ingredients can enhance the taste of your dish, they may also produce more smoke, so use them sparingly.

Thirdly, be mindful of the size of the cedar plank in relation to your air fryer. Ensure that the plank fits comfortably inside the air fryer with enough space for proper air circulation. A plank that is too large may obstruct the air flow, leading to inefficient cooking and potentially unsafe conditions. Always refer to the instructions and guidelines provided by the manufacturer of your air fryer for specific recommendations regarding the use of accessories like cedar planks.

Furthermore, it is important to monitor the cooking process closely. While the recommended cooking time for salmon on a cedar plank in an air fryer is generally around 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet, your specific air fryer model, and the temperature setting, it is crucial to keep an eye on the salmon to prevent overcooking or burning. Overcooked salmon can result in a dry and unpleasant texture, and it may also affect the taste.

Lastly, exercise caution when handling the cedar plank after cooking. It will be extremely hot, so use heat-resistant gloves or oven mitts to remove it from the air fryer. Allow it to cool completely before cleaning or disposing of it. Always clean your air fryer according to the manufacturer's instructions, paying close attention to any specific instructions regarding the use of cedar planks or other accessories.

Frequently asked questions