Finnish Salmon Soup
Creamy Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto) with salmon, potatoes, carrots, and dill, served alongside rye bread.
If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting soup that’s both delicious and easy to make, Finnish Salmon Soup (lohikeitto) is the perfect recipe for you. This classic dish from Finland is a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients like fresh salmon, creamy potatoes, and aromatic dill. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves Nordic cuisine or is curious about traditional Finnish recipes.
When I was a kid, I was totally not a fan of fish. There was this one trip when we visited my grandparents who lived by the sea. My grandpa and uncle went ahead and bought some salmon and then smoked it. And you know what? I’ve been hooked ever since! And coming from Finland, salmon is my definite favourite.
Lohikeitto is a staple in Finnish households and is often enjoyed during the colder months, though it’s equally delicious year-round. The soup is known for its creamy texture and delicate flavors, achieved by combining fresh salmon, cream, and a medley of vegetables. It’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a cozy weeknight meal or a dinner party with friends.
Tips for the Perfect Finnish Salmon Soup
Use fresh, high-quality salmon: The fresher the fish, the better the soup will taste.
Don’t overcook the salmon: Overcooked salmon can become dry and lose its delicate flavor.
Customize your cream: If you prefer a lighter soup, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. For a more traditional touch, try using smetana.
Serve with rye bread: Pair your Lohikeitto with a slice of Finnish rye bread for an authentic Nordic experience.
Frequently asked questions
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Yes! If fresh salmon isn’t available, frozen salmon works perfectly. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking or cook it from frozen for a bit longer.
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If you don’t have fish stock, you can also use vegetable stock as a substitute.
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Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
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The salmon soup is great as is, but in Finland, we serve it rye bread. You can check our my Nordic Rye Rounds recipe if you want to give it a try!
Finnish Salmon Soup
This Finnish salmon soup is a cozy blend of tender potatoes, rich salmon, and fresh dill in a creamy broth. Simple yet comforting, it captures the flavors of the Nordic coast — perfect for chilly days with a slice of rye bread.
Ingredients
- 1.0 kgpotatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2.0 medium carrots, thinly sliced
- 1.0 medium onion, finely diced
- 0.5 tspwhole black peppercorns
- 6.0 cupvegetable stock
- 400.0 gsalmon, cubed
- 1.0 cupcream
- 1.0 cupfresh dill, finely chopped
- to tastesalt
Instructions
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- 1Add potatoes, whole black peppercorns and vegetable stock in a pot and bring to a boil.
- 2Meanwhile, sauté the onion and carrots in a skillet for around 5 minutes, or until slightly softened.
- 3Add the sautéd onion and carrot into the pot, and let boil for around 15 minutes.
- 4Add the cubed salmon into the soup and let boil for additional 10 minutes, or until the salmon is thoroughly cooked.
- 5Finish the soup with cream and fresh dill. Bring to a boil and let simmer for a minute or two.
- 6Taste and add salt as needed.
- 7Serve the soup and enjoy with rye bread.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories
389 kcal
Fat
18 g
Saturated Fat
9 g
Carbohydrates
37 g
Sugar
6 g
Protein
18 g
Fiber
4 g
Salt
1.2 g
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