Cedar Plank Potato Wedges: A Smoky Twist on a Classic

The first time I tasted potatoes cooked on a cedar plank, it was at a summer barbecue at my best friend’s lake house. The aroma alone – a blend of earthy woodsmoke, fragrant herbs, and roasted potatoes – was enough to make my mouth water. The planks had been soaking in lake water and imparted a subtle, smoky flavor that elevated the humble potato to something truly special. I remember the sun setting over the lake, the laughter of friends, and the unforgettable taste of those cedar-infused potatoes. Now, it’s a flavor I recreate every summer, bringing back those cherished memories with each bite.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Servings: 1-2
• Yields: 10-15 wedges
• Dietary Type: Vegan, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 1 Yukon Gold potato, scrubbed
• ½ small onion, thinly sliced
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt or ¼ teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 1 cedar plank, soaked in water for at least 2 hours
• ¼ cup garlic salt
• 2 sprigs rosemary

Equipment Needed

• Large bowl
• Sharp knife
• Barbecue grill
• Tongs

Instructions

1. Begin by prepping the potatoes. Cut the Yukon Gold potato into wedges approximately ½ to ⅓ inch thick. Thinner wedges will result in crispier edges, while thicker wedges will be softer.
2. In a large bowl, combine the potato wedges and thinly sliced onion.
3. Add the minced garlic, sea salt (or garlic salt), finely chopped fresh rosemary, and fresh thyme to the bowl.
4. Toss all the ingredients together thoroughly, ensuring that the potatoes and onions are evenly coated with the herbs and spices.
5. Next, prepare the cedar plank. Make sure the plank has been soaking in water for at least 2 hours; this prevents it from catching fire on the grill.
6. Massage the garlic salt into both sides of the soaked cedar plank. This step is crucial for infusing the potatoes with that wonderful garlic flavor.
7. Crush the 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary and press them into the plank as well, further enhancing the aromatic profile.
8. Lay the seasoned potato wedges in an even layer on the prepared cedar plank, making sure to avoid overlapping. Overlapping potatoes will steam instead of roast, hindering the desired smoky crispness.
9. Carefully place the plank with the potatoes onto the barbecue grill.
10. Grill at a medium-high temperature for approximately 15-20 minutes. Keep a close watch to prevent the plank from charring too much; flare-ups are normal, but large flames should be avoided.
11. Halfway through the grilling time, gently turn the potatoes with tongs to ensure even cooking and browning.
12. Once the potatoes are tender and slightly browned, carefully remove the plank from the grill using tongs (remember, it will be very hot!).
13. Allow the potatoes to cool down enough to handle before removing them from the plank.
14. Serve immediately and enjoy the smoky, flavorful cedar plank potato wedges!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Soaking Time is Key: Don’t skimp on the soaking time for the cedar plank. A well-soaked plank is crucial to prevent it from burning during grilling. If you’re short on time, weigh the plank down in a tub of water with a heavy pot or brick to ensure it’s fully submerged.
• Crispiness Factor: For extra crispiness, parboil the potato wedges for 5 minutes before tossing them with the herbs and spices. This will soften the potatoes slightly, allowing them to develop a crispier exterior on the grill.
• Plank Re-use: Cedar planks can be reused a few times, as long as they haven’t been excessively charred. Scrub the plank gently with warm water (no soap!) and allow it to dry completely before storing.
• Smoke Flavor Intensification: Add wood chips to your grill’s smoker box or wrap some in foil and poke holes for even more intense smoky flavor. Applewood or hickory chips complement the potatoes perfectly.
• Fixing a Burnt Plank: If your plank starts to catch fire despite proper soaking, have a spray bottle filled with water ready to extinguish the flames quickly.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These cedar plank potato wedges are fantastic served as a side dish with grilled meats, fish, or vegetarian burgers. They also make a delicious appetizer with a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a vegan aioli.

Leftover potato wedges can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread them out on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet with a little oil for a crispier result. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the potatoes can become mushy.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	145.2 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	2%
Total Fat	2 g	0%
Saturated Fat	0.3 g	0%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	589.4 mg	24%
Total Carbohydrate	33.5 g	11%
Dietary Fiber	3.5 g	14%
Sugars	2.7 g	N/A
Protein	3.4 g	6%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Sweet Potato Wedges: Substitute the Yukon Gold potato with sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor profile. Adjust grilling time as needed.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the herb mixture for a touch of heat.
• Garlic Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as oregano, parsley, or chives.
• Lemon Herb Twist: Add the zest of one lemon to the herb mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Different Salts: Try using smoked sea salt for an even smokier flavor.
• Oil Drizzle: Drizzle a small amount of olive oil or avocado oil over the potato wedges before placing them on the plank.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of potato?
A: While Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape, Russet or red potatoes can also be used. Keep in mind that Russets will be drier and red potatoes will have a waxier texture.

Q: How do I know when the potatoes are done?
A: The potatoes are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. The edges should be slightly browned and crispy.

Q: Can I prepare the potato wedges in advance?
A: Yes, you can cut and season the potato wedges up to a few hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to grill.

Q: My cedar plank caught fire! What do I do?
A: Have a spray bottle filled with water ready to extinguish any flames. You can also move the plank to a cooler part of the grill.

Q: Where can I find cedar planks?
A: Cedar planks are available at most grocery stores, barbecue supply stores, and online retailers. Make sure to purchase food-grade cedar planks.

Final Thoughts

These cedar plank potato wedges are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, bringing a touch of smoky, herbal goodness to any meal. The combination of tender potatoes, fragrant herbs, and the unique cedar plank flavor is simply irresistible. So, fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and prepare to elevate your potato game! Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature flavor combination. And most importantly, enjoy the process and share your culinary creation with friends and family!