About Grilling Planks                                  

Can a plank be used more than once?
With care and moderate heat, the grilling plank may be used more than once.   To maximize use, soak the plank for at least one hour before you grill, keep the temperature at medium-high (400 degrees) and use a spray bottle filled with water to extinguish any flames if the grill should get too hot. When the plank becomes charred through, crumble it into the bottom of your barbecue and use as smoking chips.  

Can grilling planks be used in the oven?
The grilling planks have been designed specifically for the barbeque. Use in your oven may result in excessive smoke and food juices spilling to the bottom of your oven.  

Do the grilling planks work on a gas grill?
Yes, the grilling planks add the unique wood flavor to your food on both a gas and charcoal grill.  

Is the wood you use treated in any way?
No, all Nature's Cuisine cooking planks are made from untreated wood.   

Are there special instructions for first time use of a plank?
The first time you use the grilling plank, you will want to season the plank by lightly toasting each side before cooking food. This imparts a more intense flavor and helps prevent warping. Most of our grilling planks come with complete cooking instructions and recipes.  

About Roasting Planks

I am just getting started - Are there special care instructions for using my roasting plank?
Initially, your new plank must be seasoned each time before roasting. To do this, simply rub 1-2 tablespoons of cooking oil into the top surface. We recommend using olive oil, but vegetable oil will also work for seasoning.    After 1 - 3 uses, your plank will only need to be seasoned occasionally.  

How do I keep my roasting plank sterile?
Use a soft bristled brush, warm water and mild soap to clean your plank after each use. Before you begin cooking, preheat the plank in the oven at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. This ensures a sterile plank and allows food to cook evenly from top to bottom.  

Planks are easiest to clean within an hour of use. Planks should not be washed in the dishwasher.  

Will my plank burn in the oven?
Our roasting plank is designed to use in the oven at recommended temperatures of 350 - 400 degrees. After several uses, the bottom of your plank will begin to char. This is an ongoing natural process that is desirable because it lends a smokier essence to foods. Depending on use and type of wood you can expect an average life span of 5 - 7 years.  

My plank came with a tool - how and when do I use this?
It is characteristic of wood to develop fine cracks or warp when it's heated.   To counteract this, steel tightening rods have been inserted along the ends of the plank. When the plank is new, tighten the rods just until snug before each use. Use the adjustment tool supplied with the plank, or a 7/16-inch socket wrench. After the plank has been used several times, the wood will settle and the rods will need only occasional adjustments to keep them snug.  

What is the best wood to use?
There is no correct answer to this. Each of us enjoys different flavors and tastes. Experiment with different foods on different woods and soon you will know your favorites, but don't be surprised if someone else in the family prefers a different combination of food and wood.   

Does the plank retain food odors?
Following the techniques we prescribe for seasoning and cleaning, the plank will remain odor free.  

About General Information

How can I get answers to questions I may have as I use my planks?
Nature's Cuisine offers customer assistance during regular business hours.   Contact Customer Service toll free for questions or comments at 866-977-5265. You will also find helpful hints on this web site which will be updated on a regular basis.  

Can I get expedited shipping of my purchase?
Yes, complete details can be found in the shipping information link under customer assistance. You can also call customer service directly. All Shipping upgrades are at the customers cost.