Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

Warming, filling, and utterly delicious — these are the adjectives I would 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. Ideal for family gatherings or a cozy dinner for two, lohikeitto brings warmth and heartiness to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 35 minutes from start to finish, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of salmon, potatoes, and dill creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids from salmon, this soup is as wholesome as it is tasty.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with crusty bread for a filling meal.
• Perfect for Any Season: While it’s a classic winter dish, this light and creamy soup can be enjoyed year-round.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large heavy-bottomed pot: Ensures even heat distribution while cooking the soup, preventing burning.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping ingredients quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving the soup without spills or mess.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 30 g (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 (5 cups) litres fish stock

For the Salmon

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

For the Creaminess

• 150 ml (1.7 fl oz) double cream (heavy cream)

For Garnish

• 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 a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
* Add the finely chopped leek.
* Sauté for 7-8 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes and Carrots

• Add the chopped carrot and potatoes to the pot.
• Pour in the fish stock to cover the vegetables.
• Cook for about 10 minutes until the potatoes are almost fork-tender.

Step 3: Add Salmon and Cream

• Gently add the salmon chunks into the pot.
• Stir in the double cream.
• Simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes until the salmon is fully cooked.

Step 4: Final Touches

• Stir in the roughly chopped dill.
• Simmer for another minute to combine flavors.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving. Enjoy with extra dill on top!

How to Serve Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto) is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it traditional or add a twist, here are some serving suggestions.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Rye Bread – Serve with slices of crusty rye bread for a classic combination. The dense texture complements the creamy soup perfectly.
• Garlic Butter Baguette – A warm baguette spread with garlic butter adds flavor and a delightful crunch.

With Garnishes

• Fresh Dill – Top each bowl with extra dill for an aromatic touch that enhances the soup’s flavor.
• Lemon Wedge – Serve with lemon wedges on the side; a squeeze adds brightness to the rich broth.

As a Main Course

• Accompanied by Salad – Pair your soup with a light salad, such as a mixed greens salad, for a refreshing contrast.
• With Pickled Vegetables – Adding pickled cucumbers or radishes can provide a tangy balance to the creamy soup.

How to Perfect Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

To make your Finnish salmon soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Using fresh salmon and seasonal vegetables will enhance the flavors significantly.
• Adjust Consistency – If you prefer a thicker soup, add more potatoes or reduce the amount of stock used.
• Balance Flavors – Taste as you go; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to achieve the perfect balance.
• Simmer Gently – Avoid boiling after adding the salmon; gentle simmering ensures tender fish without overcooking.
• Explore Herbs – Experiment with other herbs like parsley or chives for additional flavor layers.

Best Side Dishes for Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

Complementing your Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto) with side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Cucumber Salad – A light salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers, vinegar, and dill offers a refreshing contrast.
2. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad pairs well with the flavors of the soup and adds heartiness to the meal.
3. Roasted Root Vegetables – Roasted carrots and parsnips bring sweetness and texture, making them an excellent side option.
4. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil provides a colorful and nutritious side.
5. Quinoa Salad – A quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon adds protein and complements the dish well.
6. Herb Focaccia – Soft focaccia bread topped with herbs is perfect for dipping into your soup while enjoying its richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto) is straightforward, but it’s easy to fumble the details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong type of stock: Using a low-quality or overly salty fish stock can ruin the flavor. Always opt for a good quality homemade or store-bought stock with a balanced taste.
• Overcooking the salmon: Cooking the salmon too long can make it dry and tough. Add the salmon in the last few minutes of cooking to keep it tender and flaky.
• Not seasoning properly: Failing to season your soup adequately can lead to blandness. Taste your soup at different stages and adjust with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like dill.
• Skipping the fresh herbs: Fresh herbs elevate this dish significantly. Don’t skip on the dill; it adds vibrant flavor that’s essential to authentic Finnish salmon soup.
• Using large potato chunks: If you cut potatoes too large, they won’t cook evenly. Make sure to chop them into uniform 1/2-inch cubes for consistent doneness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Finnish salmon soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto).

What is Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)?

Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto) is a traditional creamy soup made with fresh salmon, potatoes, leeks, and dill. It’s rich in flavor and perfect for cold weather.

Can I use other types of fish?

Yes! While salmon is traditional, you can substitute with other firm fish like trout or even white fish if desired.

Is Finnish Salmon Soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well and can be made ahead of time for quick meals throughout the week.

How can I customize my Finnish Salmon Soup?

You can add vegetables like spinach or carrots for extra nutrition or adjust seasoning based on personal preference.

What should I serve with Finnish Salmon Soup?

This comforting soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto) is not only warming but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs! Try making this delightful recipe soon; it promises comfort in every spoonful!