Finnish Salmon Soup – Lohikeitto

Finnish Salmon Soup – Lohikeitto is a delicious, comforting dish that warms the soul. This traditional recipe brings together fresh salmon, creamy broth, and flavorful vegetables, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With its rich flavors and straightforward preparation, this Nordic classic is sure to impress at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: Finnish Salmon Soup is packed with nutritious ingredients, making it a satisfying meal for any time of day.
• Quick Preparation: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious homemade soup ready in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices to suit your taste.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of dill, allspice, and fresh salmon creates a unique and delightful flavor that will leave you wanting more.
• Comforting Classic: This soup embodies the essence of comfort food, perfect for chilly days or when you need a little pick-me-up.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for simmering the soup evenly and providing enough space for all the ingredients.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes cutting vegetables and fish easier and safer, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Broth

• salmon skins from salmon filets
• 5 cups water
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Soup Base

• 2 pounds salmon (cut into bite-sized chunks)
• 4 medium leeks (white and light green parts only, cut into small rounds and cleaned)
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt (divided and to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)

For Vegetables

• 1.5 pounds potatoes (non-starchy potatoes, peeled and quartered)
• 3 large carrots (peeled and cut into rounds)

For Finishing Touches

• 4 cups fish stock (that we made or can use store-bought)
• 1 cup fresh dill (chopped)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (8 ounces)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Finnish Salmon Soup – Lohikeitto

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

1. In a large pot, combine the salmon skins with 5 cups of water.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Leeks

1. In another large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Add the cleaned leeks and sauté until they become soft but not browned.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

1. Stir in the quartered potatoes and carrot rounds.
2. Pour in the fish stock along with the simmered broth from Step 1.
3. Season with 1 tablespoon of kosher salt, allspice, and black pepper.
4. Bring everything to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Cook the Salmon

1. Once boiling, reduce heat again to a gentle simmer.
2. Add the salmon chunks carefully into the pot.
3. Let cook for about 10 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.

Step 5: Finish with Cream

1. Stir in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream for richness.
2. Add chopped fresh dill right before serving for an aromatic finish.

Enjoy your hearty bowl of Finnish Salmon Soup – Lohikeitto!

How to Serve Finnish Salmon Soup – Lohikeitto

Serving Finnish Salmon Soup, or Lohikeitto, allows you to enjoy its warm and comforting flavors. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Rye Bread – Pair the soup with slices of hearty rye bread for a traditional touch.
• Crusty Baguette – A crispy baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.

Garnished with Dill

• Fresh Dill Sprigs – Add a few sprigs of fresh dill on top as a garnish for an aromatic finish.
• Lemon Zest – A sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten the flavors of the soup.

Accompanied by Salad

• Green Salad – Serve with a light green salad drizzled with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Potato Salad – A creamy potato salad complements the soup’s richness nicely.

How to Perfect Finnish Salmon Soup – Lohikeitto

To achieve the best results when making Finnish Salmon Soup, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Always opt for fresh salmon and vegetables for the best taste.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually – Taste as you go; add salt and pepper gradually to avoid over-seasoning.
• Avoid Overcooking Salmon – Cook the salmon just until it flakes easily to maintain its tenderness.
• Let it Rest Before Serving – Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes enhances the flavors as they meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Finnish Salmon Soup – Lohikeitto

A well-rounded meal should include delicious side dishes that complement Finnish Salmon Soup. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Pickled Cucumbers – Their tangy flavor provides a nice contrast to the creamy soup.
2. Roasted Root Vegetables – A mix of roasted carrots, parsnips, and beets adds sweetness and color.
3. Crispy Fried Potatoes – These add texture and pair well with the soup’s smooth consistency.
4. Beet Salad – A vibrant beet salad offers earthiness that balances the dish.
5. Creamy Coleslaw – The crunch and creaminess of coleslaw bring freshness to your meal.
6. Cheese Platter – Include a selection of Scandinavian cheeses for an elegant touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Finnish Salmon Soup – Lohikeitto, it’s easy to make mistakes that can impact the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong type of potatoes: Non-starchy potatoes are best for this soup. Starchy potatoes can become mushy and alter the soup’s texture.
• Overcooking the salmon: Salmon cooks quickly; overcooking can lead to a dry texture. Add it in the last few minutes of cooking for the best results.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Always taste your soup before serving. The amount of salt and pepper may need adjusting based on personal preference.
• Neglecting to clean leeks properly: Leeks can hold dirt between their layers. Make sure to wash them thoroughly to avoid gritty soup.
• Skipping fresh dill: Fresh dill elevates the flavor of Lohikeitto. Dried dill won’t provide the same aromatic quality, so use fresh whenever possible.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Finnish Salmon Soup – Lohikeitto in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Finnish Salmon Soup – Lohikeitto

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• You can freeze it for up to 3 months, but keep in mind that the texture might change slightly upon reheating.

Reheating Finnish Salmon Soup – Lohikeitto

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, heating until warmed through (about 20-25 minutes).
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through; add a splash of cream if needed for consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen salmon for Finnish Salmon Soup – Lohikeitto?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just ensure it is fully thawed before adding it to the soup for even cooking.

How do I make Finnish Salmon Soup – Lohikeitto gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check fish stock labels for any additives that may contain gluten.

What herbs can I substitute if I don’t have dill?

If you don’t have fresh dill, try using parsley or tarragon for a different flavor profile, but know that it will change the authentic taste of Lohikeitto.

How can I customize my Finnish Salmon Soup – Lohikeitto?

You can add other vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrition or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Finnish Salmon Soup – Lohikeitto is not just a comforting meal; it’s also incredibly versatile. This dish allows room for customization based on your preferences or available ingredients. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing with family during a festive occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and discover its delightful flavors!

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Finnish Salmon Soup – Lohikeitto

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people

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Description

Finnish Salmon Soup, known as Lohikeitto, is a heartwarming dish that combines fresh salmon with a creamy, flavorful broth and an array of vegetables. This traditional Nordic recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. With rich flavors from dill and allspice, and a soothing texture enhanced by heavy cream, this soup serves as the ultimate comfort food on chilly days. In just about 45 minutes, you can create a delicious meal that will impress your loved ones and warm their hearts.

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Ingredients

• Salmon skins (from filets)
• Fresh salmon (2 pounds)
• Leeks (4 medium)
• Potatoes (1.5 pounds)
• Carrots (3 large)
• Fish stock (4 cups)
• Heavy whipping cream (1 cup)
• Fresh dill (1 cup)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the broth by simmering salmon skins in water for 15 minutes.
2. Sauté leeks in butter until soft.
3. Add potatoes and carrots; pour in the fish stock along with the simmered broth. Season and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat, add salmon chunks, and cook until they flake easily.
5. Stir in heavy cream and fresh dill before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Nordic

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Experiment with additional vegetables like spinach or peas. Adjust seasoning gradually to suit your taste preferences.