Authentic Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto): A Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Ingredients

  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 potatoes, diced
  • 1 1/2 liters fish stock
  • 600 grams salmon fillet, cut into chunks
  • 200 ml heavy cream
  • 1 bunch fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon white pepper

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and soft.
  2. Add the diced potatoes to the pot and continue sautéing for a few minutes.
  3. Pour the fish stock into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are halfway cooked, about 10 minutes.
  4. Add the salmon chunks to the pot. Let the soup simmer until the salmon is cooked through, about 10 minutes.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream, chopped dill, salt, and white pepper. Continue cooking the soup for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the soup hot.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - Needed to cook the soup and hold all the ingredients.
  • Cutting board - Used for chopping the onion, potatoes, and dill.
  • Knife - Essential for cutting the onion, potatoes, and salmon fillet.
  • Spatula - Useful for sautéing the onion and stirring the soup.
  • Measuring spoons - Required to accurately measure the salt and white pepper.

Recipe variations

  • Use vegetable stock instead of fish stock for a vegetarian version.
  • Replace the salmon with another type of fish, such as trout or cod.
  • Add some vegetables like carrots, leeks, or celery to the soup for added flavor and texture.
  • For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the salmon.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme or paprika, to customize the flavor profile.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of white wine for a tangy twist.
  • Serve the soup with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche on top.
  • For a heartier version, add cooked rice or barley to the soup.
  • Try using coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative.
  • For a lighter option, use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream.

Recipe overview

Lohikeitto, or Finnish Salmon Soup, is a hearty and comforting dish adored and known widely in Finland. A traditional recipe, it promises a delightful blend of salmon chunks, potatoes, and dill, all swimming in a creamy broth. It's a simple dish with layers of flavor, perfect for a cozy winter meal or an easy weeknight dinner. Despite its gourmet taste, it's straightforward to prepare and cook, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Expect a deliciously creamy, warming, and satisfying soup that will make you want to dive right in.

Common questions

  1. Can I use vegetable stock instead of fish stock? Absolutely! If you prefer a vegetarian version or don't have fish stock on hand, you can substitute it with vegetable stock.
  2. Can I use a different type of fish? Yes, you can use other types of fish like trout or cod instead of salmon. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of the fish.
  3. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the Lohikeitto soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  4. Can I add other vegetables or ingredients? While the traditional Lohikeitto recipe includes potatoes, onions, and salmon, you can add other vegetables like carrots or leeks if you wish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  5. Can I use fresh dill instead of dried? Fresh dill is highly recommended for this recipe as it adds a fresh and vibrant flavor. However, if you don't have fresh dill available, you can substitute it with dried dill. Use half the amount specified for fresh dill.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - A pot large enough to hold the soup and accommodate stirring.
  • Chopping board - Used for chopping and preparing the onion, potatoes, and dill.
  • Knife - Essential for chopping the ingredients.
  • Spatula - Helps to stir and mix the ingredients in the pot.
  • Soup ladle - Used for serving the hot soup into bowls.
  • Soup bowls - The serving vessels for the Lohikeitto.
  • Soup spoons - Used for eating the soup.

Origin stories

Lohikeitto, a creamy salmon soup, hails from Finland, a country that's embraced by numerous lakes and vast coastline. Comforting and hearty, this soup has been warming the Finns for centuries, especially during the frigid winter months. It's a very traditional dish, often prepared in the kotiliesi, the heart of Finnish homes - the kitchen stove. The simplicity of its ingredients, mainly salmon, potatoes, and dill, reflects the straightforwardness and practicality of Finnish cuisine, which takes advantage of the country's bountiful natural resources. Today, it's not only a beloved staple in Finnish households, but it's also a popular dish in Nordic-themed restaurants worldwide, serving as a delectable reminder of Finland's culinary heritage.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.