Cedar planks have become a staple in many outdoor kitchens and backyards, and for good reason. They add a rich, smoky flavor to food that’s hard to replicate with traditional grilling methods. But where do you find these magical planks? In this article, we’ll explore the best places to get cedar planks for cooking, from online retailers to local hardware stores.
Online Retailers: The Convenience of Cedar at Your Doorstep
In today’s digital age, it’s easier than ever to get cedar planks delivered right to your doorstep. Online retailers offer a wide selection of cedar planks in various sizes, thicknesses, and quantities. Here are a few popular online retailers that carry cedar planks:
Amazon: The Cedar Plank Superstore
Amazon is a great place to start your search for cedar planks. With a vast selection of planks from various brands, you’re sure to find the perfect ones for your cooking needs. You can search for “cedar planks for grilling” or “cedar planks for cooking” to find relevant results. Be sure to check the product reviews and descriptions to ensure you’re getting high-quality planks.
Walmart: Affordable Cedar Planks for the Masses
Walmart is another online retailer that carries a range of cedar planks. Their selection may not be as vast as Amazon’s, but you can still find some great deals on cedar planks. Plus, with Walmart’s free shipping and in-store pickup options, you can get your planks quickly and easily.
Home Depot: The Hardware Store Goes Online
Home Depot is a well-known hardware store chain that also sells cedar planks online. Their selection is impressive, with planks ranging from 1/4 inch to 1 inch thick. You can even check availability at your local store and have your planks ready for pickup.
Local Hardware Stores: The Personal Touch of Cedar Plank Shopping
While online retailers offer convenience, there’s something to be said for shopping at local hardware stores. You can see and touch the cedar planks before buying, and the staff may be able to offer valuable advice on how to use them. Here are a few reasons why you should consider shopping at local hardware stores:
Supporting Local Businesses
By shopping at local hardware stores, you’re supporting small businesses in your community. This can have a positive impact on the local economy and help keep your community thriving.
Personalized Service
Local hardware stores often have knowledgeable staff who can answer your questions and offer advice on how to use cedar planks. They may even be able to recommend specific types of cedar or plank sizes based on your cooking needs.
Immediate Availability
When you shop at local hardware stores, you can take your cedar planks home with you immediately. No need to wait for shipping or worry about delivery times.
Specialty Food Stores: The Gourmet Cedar Plank Experience
If you’re looking for a more gourmet cedar plank experience, you may want to try shopping at specialty food stores. These stores often carry a range of artisanal cedar planks that are perfect for cooking delicate fish or other gourmet dishes.
Williams-Sonoma: The Upscale Cedar Plank Destination
Williams-Sonoma is a high-end cookware store that carries a range of cedar planks. Their planks are made from sustainably sourced cedar and are designed for cooking gourmet meals.
Sur La Table: The Cedar Plank Connoisseur’s Choice
Sur La Table is another specialty food store that carries a range of cedar planks. Their planks are made from high-quality cedar and are designed for cooking a variety of dishes, from fish to vegetables.
Directly from the Source: Buying Cedar Planks from Sawmills
If you’re looking for a truly unique cedar plank experience, you may want to try buying directly from a sawmill. Sawmills often carry a range of cedar planks in various sizes and thicknesses, and you may be able to find some great deals on bulk purchases.
The Benefits of Buying Direct
Buying cedar planks directly from a sawmill can have several benefits. For one, you may be able to find lower prices on bulk purchases. Additionally, you’ll be supporting local businesses and getting high-quality planks that are freshly cut.
How to Find a Local Sawmill
To find a local sawmill, you can try searching online for “sawmills near me” or “cedar sawmills in [your state].” You can also check with local hardware stores or lumber yards to see if they know of any sawmills in the area.
Conclusion: Where to Get Cedar Planks for Cooking
Cedar planks are a great way to add smoky flavor to your food, and there are many places where you can buy them. From online retailers like Amazon and Walmart to local hardware stores and specialty food stores, you have plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for convenience, personalized service, or a gourmet cedar plank experience, there’s a retailer out there that can meet your needs. So why not give cedar planks a try? Your taste buds will thank you.
| Retalier | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Wide selection, fast shipping, competitive prices | Quality can vary depending on seller |
| Walmart | Affordable prices, free shipping, in-store pickup | Selection may be limited |
| Home Depot | Wide selection, knowledgeable staff, competitive prices | May not offer free shipping |
| Local Hardware Stores | Personalized service, immediate availability, supporting local businesses | Selection may be limited, prices may be higher |
| Specialty Food Stores | Gourmet cedar plank experience, high-quality planks, knowledgeable staff | Prices may be higher, selection may be limited |
| Sawmills | Buying direct from the source, lower prices on bulk purchases, supporting local businesses | May require bulk purchase, quality can vary depending on sawmill |
By considering these factors and weighing the pros and cons of each retailer, you can find the perfect cedar planks for your cooking needs. Happy grilling!
What are cedar planks used for in cooking?
Cedar planks are used for cooking to add a smoky flavor to food, particularly fish, meat, and vegetables. They are typically soaked in water or a marinade before being heated on a grill or in an oven, which releases the oils and flavor compounds from the cedar wood.
The resulting flavor is often described as smoky, savory, and slightly sweet, and is a popular choice for cooking salmon, steak, and other types of protein. Cedar planks can also be used to add flavor to vegetables, such as asparagus and bell peppers, and can be used in combination with other seasonings and marinades to create a unique flavor profile.
Where can I buy cedar planks for cooking?
Cedar planks for cooking can be found at a variety of retailers, both online and in-store. Some popular options include home goods stores, specialty food stores, and online marketplaces. You can also check with local hardware stores or lumber yards to see if they carry cedar planks or can special order them for you.
When shopping for cedar planks, make sure to look for planks that are specifically labeled as “food-grade” or “culinary-grade,” as these are safe for use with food. You should also choose planks that are made from Western red cedar, as this type of cedar is naturally resistant to rot and insects.
How do I prepare cedar planks for cooking?
To prepare cedar planks for cooking, start by soaking them in water or a marinade for at least 30 minutes. This will help to prevent the planks from catching fire when heated, and will also help to release the flavor compounds from the cedar wood.
Once the planks are soaked, you can place them on a preheated grill or in a hot oven. Make sure to cook the planks over medium-low heat, as high heat can cause the cedar to burn or become bitter. You can also brush the planks with oil or a marinade before cooking to add extra flavor.
Can I reuse cedar planks for cooking?
Cedar planks can be reused for cooking, but they should be properly cleaned and dried between uses. To clean a cedar plank, simply wipe it down with a paper towel and rinse it with water. You can also sanitize the plank by soaking it in a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar.
To dry a cedar plank, place it in a low-temperature oven (150-200°F) for 10-15 minutes. This will help to remove any excess moisture and prevent the growth of bacteria or mold. Cedar planks can be reused several times, but they will eventually become worn and brittle. When this happens, it’s time to replace them with new planks.
Are cedar planks safe to use for cooking?
Cedar planks are generally safe to use for cooking, as long as they are properly prepared and used. However, there are some precautions to take to ensure safe use. First, make sure to choose planks that are specifically labeled as “food-grade” or “culinary-grade,” as these are safe for use with food.
You should also avoid using cedar planks that have been treated with chemicals or pesticides, as these can leach into food and cause health problems. Additionally, make sure to cook the planks over medium-low heat, as high heat can cause the cedar to burn or become bitter.
Can I use cedar planks in the oven?
Yes, cedar planks can be used in the oven to add a smoky flavor to food. To use cedar planks in the oven, simply place them on a baking sheet and heat them in a preheated oven at 350-400°F. You can also place the planks directly on the oven racks, but make sure to line the racks with foil to prevent the planks from catching fire.
When using cedar planks in the oven, make sure to cook them over medium-low heat, as high heat can cause the cedar to burn or become bitter. You can also brush the planks with oil or a marinade before cooking to add extra flavor.
How long do cedar planks last?
The lifespan of cedar planks for cooking can vary depending on how often they are used and how well they are cared for. On average, a cedar plank can be used 2-5 times before it becomes worn and brittle. However, with proper care and maintenance, a cedar plank can last for several months.
To extend the life of a cedar plank, make sure to clean and dry it properly between uses. You should also store the plank in a cool, dry place to prevent it from becoming warped or damaged. With proper care, a cedar plank can provide years of flavorful cooking.