Lohikeitto (Finnish Salmon Soup)

Creamy salmon soup with potatoes, carrots, leeks, and fresh dill.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 400 g salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into chunks

• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

• 2 carrots, diced

• 1 leek, sliced

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 tbsp butter

• 800 ml fish or vegetable stock

• 200 ml heavy cream

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Fresh dill, chopped, for garnish

• Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice

Preparation

1. Sauté vegetables:

   • Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.

   • Add onion, leek, carrots, and potatoes. Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.

2. Simmer the soup:

   • Add stock and bring to a boil.

   • Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender.

3. Add salmon and cream:

   • Stir in salmon chunks and cream.

   • Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until salmon is cooked through.

   • Season with salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice.

4. Serve:

   • Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh dill.

   • Serve hot with rye bread or crispbread on the side.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with rye bread or buttered crispbread.

• Complement with a light white wine or sparkling water.

Cooking Tips

• Avoid overcooking salmon to keep it tender and flaky.

• Fresh dill is essential for authentic Finnish flavor.

• Use waxy potatoes to help the soup hold its shape without turning mushy.