Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

Warming, filling, and utterly delicious — these are the adjectives I’d use to describe this Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto). This creamy salmon soup is perfect for a cold winter’s night, and it’s so good you won’t be able to stop at just one bowl. It’s a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth, making it suitable for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting flavor: The combination of salmon, potatoes, and dill creates a rich and satisfying dish.
• Simple preparation: This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it as a main course or pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with nutritious vegetables and salmon, this soup is not just delicious but also good for you.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering, this soup fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, ensure you have all the necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot
• Chopping board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large heavy-bottomed pot: Essential for even heat distribution while cooking your soup, preventing burning.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables quick and efficient.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto), gather the following ingredients:

For the Base

• 30 g (1 ounce) unsalted butter
• 1 large leek, finely chopped (white part only)
• 1 medium carrot, chopped
• 5 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch cubes (about 400 g) (14 oz)
• 1.25 litres fish stock (5 cups)

For the Salmon

• 450 g (15.8 oz) salmon fillets, skinned and cut into 1-inch cubes

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 150 ml (1.7 fl oz) double cream (heavy cream)
• 1 bunch dill, roughly chopped (about 75 grams) (2.6 oz)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Melt the butter in your large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
* Add the chopped leek to the pot and sauté for about 7-8 minutes until it softens.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes and Carrot

Add the chopped carrot and potatoes into the pot.
* Pour in the fish stock until the vegetables are covered.
* Cook for approximately 10 minutes until the potatoes are almost fork-tender.

Step 3: Add Salmon and Cream

Introduce the salmon cubes along with double cream to your pot.
* Simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.

Step 4: Final Touches

Stir in the roughly chopped dill.
* Let it simmer for another minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving with extra dill on top.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Finnish salmon soup!

How to Serve Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

Serving Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto) is an experience that enhances its comforting flavors. Here are some delightful ways to present this warming dish that can elevate your meal.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a loaf of crusty bread for dipping, allowing guests to soak up every bit of the creamy broth.
• Rye Bread: Offer slices of traditional rye bread, which complements the flavors perfectly and adds a rustic touch.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Dill: Sprinkle fresh dill over the soup just before serving for an extra burst of flavor and color.
• Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest on top to add a refreshing citrus note that brightens the dish.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Green Salad: Pair your soup with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a light contrast.
• Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad can enhance the heartiness of the meal while adding texture.

How to Perfect Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

Perfecting your Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto) involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh salmon and vegetables. They significantly enhance the overall quality and taste of the soup.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding the salmon to create creaminess.
• Control Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper towards the end to ensure the flavors remain balanced.
• Simmer Gently: Avoid boiling after adding salmon; gentle simmering ensures delicate fish that doesn’t break apart.

Best Side Dishes for Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

Pairing side dishes with Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto) can create a well-rounded dining experience. Here are some great options that complement its rich flavors.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter adds a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the lohikeitto.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a fresh, bright flavor that pairs well with salmon.
4. Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and beets roasted until caramelized add sweetness and earthiness to your meal.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar adds crispness and cuts through the creaminess of the soup.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs can provide additional protein and texture while keeping it healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto), it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients enhance flavor and nutrition. Always choose fresh salmon, vegetables, and herbs for the best taste.
• Overcooking the Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly; overcooking can make it dry. Add the salmon towards the end of cooking and simmer just until it’s cooked through.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Every ingredient has a different flavor profile. Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or dill as needed.
• Skipping the Dill: Dill is essential for authentic Finnish salmon soup flavor. Don’t skip this herb; add it just before serving for maximum freshness.
• Using Heavy Cream Instead of Double Cream: Double cream gives a richer taste and texture. If you use heavy cream, reduce the amount slightly to prevent overpowering the other flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Will last for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir frequently until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto) that can help you perfect your dish.

What can I substitute for fish stock in Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)?

You can use vegetable broth or chicken broth as an alternative if fish stock is unavailable. Just keep in mind it will slightly change the flavor profile.

Can I use frozen salmon for Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw it properly before adding it to the soup. This ensures even cooking and better texture.

How do I make Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto) dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. This keeps the creamy texture without dairy.

Can I add more vegetables to my Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrition and flavor. Just ensure they cook well within the time frame.

Final Thoughts

Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto) is a delightful dish that warms you from the inside out. Its creamy texture combined with fresh dill makes it truly special. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste. Give it a try — you won’t be disappointed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Experience the warmth and comfort of Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto), a creamy and delightful dish perfect for cozy winter evenings. This nourishing soup features tender salmon, fresh potatoes, and aromatic dill, creating a satisfying meal that’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it for a family dinner or serving it at a gathering with friends, this lohikeitto is sure to impress everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 30 g unsalted butter
• 1 large leek (white part only), finely chopped
• 1 medium carrot, chopped
• 5 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 400 g)
• 1.25 liters fish stock
• 450 g salmon fillets, skinned and cubed
• 150 ml double cream
• 1 bunch dill, roughly chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped leek and sauté for about 7-8 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the chopped carrot and potatoes, then pour in the fish stock to cover the vegetables. Cook for approximately 10 minutes until the potatoes are nearly fork-tender.
3. Add the salmon cubes and double cream to the pot. Simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.
4. Mix in the chopped dill and let simmer for another minute. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Finnish

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg