Grilled Cedar Rum Salmon
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Additional Time
1 hr 20 mins
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Total Time
1 hr 30 mins
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Servings
4 4 oz servings
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Calories
397 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Grilled Cedar Rum Salmon
Description
Grilled Cedar Rum Salmon combines fresh salmon with a marinade of dark rum, lime juice, brown sugar, cilantro, and ginger, introducing a balanced blend of sweetness, herbal notes, and a touch of spice. The use of cedar planks for grilling adds a distinct smoky character while keeping the salmon moist and giving a gentle smoke flavor without overpowering the marinade. Cooking times vary based on fillet thickness, and the salmon should be cooked to medium or medium-rare temperatures for optimal tenderness and flakiness.
The salmon can be grilled directly on the cedar plank or without planks on an oiled grill to prevent sticking; grilling on planks imparts the signature smoky aroma. The combination of rum and brown sugar creates a caramelizing glaze, while lime and cilantro add brightness to the dish. Serving this salmon alongside simple sides will let its flavors shine.
The marinade can be prepared up to a day ahead and should be brought to room temperature before use. Soaking the cedar plank prevents burning on the grill and helps it smolder during cooking. Monitoring the fish's internal temperature or texture ensures it is cooked to preferred doneness without drying out. Alternative cooking methods include baking with the marinade, though this will sacrifice the cedar smoke flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lbs salmon fillet center cut
Marinade
- 1/4 cup dark rum
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup cilantro chopped and packed
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions
- Prep Cedar Plank: Add cedar plank (or planks) to a baking dish deep/wide enough to fit the plank or a sink filled with cool water and let soak for at least 1 hour and up to 12.
- Prep Marinade: Add all marinade ingredients to a small bowl and whisk. Set aside until you're ready to use, or add to a ziplock bag. Marinade can be made up to a day in advance.
- Marinate Salmon: Gently add the salmon to the zip lock bag with the marinade, skin side up so that the flesh of the salmon rests in the marinade. Remove as much air as possible from the ziplock bag and seal. Let marinate for 20 - 30 (max) minutes, at room temperature. This will allow the salmon to come up to room temp before grilling.
- Prepare Grill: Preheat the grill over medium-high.
- Grill: Add the planks to the hot grill and then gently add the salmon to the cedar planks. Brush one last time with the marinade before closing the grill. Allow the planks to smolder, but not burn and let your salmon cook for 12-16 minutes. The salmon will be done when the salmon flesh is firm when you touch it and has turned to an opaque pink color. To ensure doneness, it's always best to use a food thermometer. Test the thickest part of the salmon and it will be medium rare if it reads 125 - 130 degrees F.
Notes
- Use center-cut fillets for even cooking; thinner pieces require less time, so adjust accordingly.
- Bring the marinade to room temperature before marinating the salmon to ensure consistent flavor infusion.
- Soak cedar planks for at least 1 hour before grilling to prevent burning and promote even smoke.
- Check doneness by internal temperature: medium rare at 120°F, medium at 125–130°F, or cook to 145°F if preferred well done.
- Grill without cedar planks by oiling grates and cooking skin side down, watching for flare-ups due to alcohol in marinade.
- Marinade can be made a day in advance and stored chilled until use.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 44 oz servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 397 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 397kcal | 20% |
| Carbohydrates | 4g | 1% |
| Protein | 23g | 46% |
| Fat | 28g | 43% |
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5g | 29% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 18g | 90% |
| Cholesterol | 62mg | 21% |
| Sodium | 197mg | 8% |
| Potassium | 582mg | 12% |
| Fiber | 0.1g | 0% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
| Vitamin A | 117IU | 2% |
| Vitamin C | 3mg | 3% |
| Calcium | 19mg | 2% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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