Alder Plank Smoked Salmon

11 Reviews

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 6 hr
Ready In: 10 hr 15 min

“This smoked salmon derives its flavor from Alder wood planks. I get these planks at the local lumber yard. Be sure you tell whoever helps you that you are cooking salmon on the wood so that you do not get any creosote wood or other treated wood. Also, make sure you know what plank size will fit in your smoker before you go to get the wood. This salmon will come out very moist and smoky, so be prepared for some of the best smoked fish you've ever eaten!” - by Smokin' Ron

Ingredients

brine
1 (3 pound) salmon fillet
freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/8 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon water

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Metric US

Original recipe yields 10 servings

Directions

Soak the salmon fillet in a brine solution for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. Also, submerge the alder wood plank in water, placing a heavy object on top of it to prevent floating.
Preheat an outdoor smoker for 160 to 180 degrees F (70 to 80 degrees C).
Remove the salmon from the brine, rinse thoroughly under cold running water, and pat dry with paper towels. Remove the wood plank from the water, and lay the fish out on the plank. Season with freshly ground black pepper.
Smoke the salmon for at least 2 hours, checking after 1 1/2 hours for doneness. The fish is done when it flakes with a fork, but it should also not be too salty. As the fish smokes, the salt content reduces. Adjust the cooking time and salty flavor to your taste. (Note: Smoking a fillet can take 2 to 6 hours depending on your taste, the size of the fillet, and the fat content of the fish.)
During the last 30 minutes of smoking, mix together the brown sugar and water to form a paste. Brush this liberally onto the salmon.

Nutrition

Amount Per Serving (10 total)

Calories
207 cal
10%

Carbs
2.8 g
< 1%

Based on a 2,000 calorie diet

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Reviews (11)

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Esmee

Jan. 25, 2004

"There are very few things in life that can make fresh salmon taste better, however smokin' ron's recipe for smoked salmon does just that...." See more"

SONYABOW

Apr. 28, 2005

"This is an awesome way to make salmon! Be sure to make the brine. I soaked my plank in water with lemon, orange and tangerines and it was the best! The butcher told me to also soak in onion and garlic..." See more for another flavor."

AMYSTAN

Jan. 25, 2004

"This was the best fish recipe i have ever tasted. The plank gave the fish so much flavor. I cooked mine a little longer, until it was mostly white...The whole family loved this recpe..." See more"

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