Rainbow trout is not only an impressive fish to catch, but also nice to eat. Especially when you prepare it on a cedar plank and pop it on the barbeque. Trout has a mild, slightly nutty taste that’s a bit like salmon. They are flaky but delicate when cooked, and don’t taste too ‘fishy.’
Simple is best when preparing trout. There’s no need for complicated sauces as they will overpower the flavour. Make sure you allow the trout to reach room temperature before you season it. Sea salt, coarse black pepper and garlic is really all you need, but you can jazz things up as you like with other spices. The marinade in this recipe is simple but delicious.
Cedar planked rainbow trout fillet – serves 2
- 1-2 cedar planks, soaked for about an hour
- 1-2 trout fillets
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon and lime juice
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 1 tsp chopped ginger (optional)
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp ground pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tbsp dried parsley or a handful of freshly chopped herbs
- 2-3 tbsp soy sauce
- A splash of white wine (optional)
- Fresh lemon and lime slices
Step 1:
Mix together all the ingredients for the marinade and set aside the slices of lemon and lime. Baste the fish with the marinade and save a few tablespoons to add to the fish while it’s on the barbecue. Cover the fish and place in the refrigerator for an hour or two, until you are ready to grill.
Step 2:
Preheat your barbecue on a medium to high heat. Place the trout or skin side down on the plank and add the reserved marinade. Put the slices of lemon and lime on top of the fish.
Step 3:
Place on the grill and cover. Keeping it covered so the smoke can circulate as that will add that beautiful flavour. You will need to watch the fish closely and if there are any flare-ups or little fires as the plank heats up, put them out straight away.
Step 4:
Cook for 15 – 20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet, or until fish is tender and flakes easily. Make sure not to overcook it as the fish will get tough.
Trout is rich in protein and super low-carb, and this fish can be served hot or cold. One large cedar planked rainbow trout fillet is enough to satisfy two diners. You can serve the fish with your favourite vegetables, a sweet slaw or Caesar salad, and pasta or basmati rice.
