Lunch: Smoked Salmon, Barbecue University-Style

Recipe by Steven Raichlen This whisky-scented smoked salmon combines the virtues of hot smoking and cedar planking. The dry brine in a sugar-salt mixture seasons the fish wonderfully. Cedar planks are available at grill stores and cookware shops. For gas

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Salmon, Lemon

Health benefits of Smoked Salmon, Barbecue University-Style

Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for reducing inflammation and promoting cardiovascular health. It is also rich in vitamin D, which helps regulate insulin levels and improve mood, both of which are important for managing PCOS symptoms. Additionally, salmon provides a good amount of B vitamins, particularly B12, which supports energy production and helps maintain healthy nerve function. Including salmon in your diet can help balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and support overall well-being. Lemons can help to prevent oxidative damage to the body, which women with PCOS are often susceptible to. Lemons are also rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. They can potentially support the immune system and have other health benefits. Lemons also have a low glycemic index, so they should not cause a rapid rise in blood sugar when consumed in natural form.

Ingredients

1/2 cup Scotch whisky
1 (1 1/2-pound) 3/4-inch-thick, center-cut skinless salmon fillet (preferably wild)
1 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons coarsely cracked black peppercorns
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon grated lemon rind
1 (15 x 6 1/2 x 3/8 –inch) cedar grilling plank
1 1/2 cups hickory wood chips
Coarsely cracked black peppercorns (optional)
Lemon slices (optional)

Instructions

Combine whisky and salmon in a large zip-top plastic bag. Refrigerate 1 hour, turning occasionally. Drain; pat salmon dry.
Combine brown sugar, pepper, salt, and rind in a large bowl. Place one-third of sugar mixture in bottom of an 11 x 7 –inch baking dish. Add fish; top evenly with remaining sugar mixture. Cover with plastic wrap; refrigerate 4 hours. Rinse fish well; pat dry.
Soak grilling plank in water 1 hour; drain. Soak wood chips in water 30 minutes; drain.
Remove grill rack; set aside. Prepare grill for indirect grilling, heating both sides to medium and leaving center with no heat. Maintain temperature at medium (325 °). Toss wood chips on coals. Place grill rack on grill. Place salmon, skinned-side down, on plank in center of hot rack, away from the heat. Cover; cook 30 minutes or until desired degree of doneness. Serve with cracked peppercorns and lemon slices, if desired.