Finnish Salmon Cream Dill Soup

Finnish Salmon Soup, known as Lohikeitto, is the ultimate Nordic comfort food. This creamy dish features tender salmon cubes and soft potatoes in a rich, dill-infused broth, capturing the authentic essence of a Finnish home-cooked meal.

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Whether you are looking for a nutritious pescatarian dinner or a warming gluten-free soup, this recipe delivers a hearty experience that is both simple to prepare and deeply satisfying. It is a staple in Finnish households during the colder months.

Ingredients

• Fish & Seafood: 400 g (14 oz) skinless salmon fillet, boneless, cut into bite-sized cubes
• Vegetables: 600 g (1.3 lbs) potatoes (peeled and cubed), 1 medium carrot (sliced), 1 small leek (thinly sliced), 1 small yellow onion (chopped), 1 bunch fresh dill (finely chopped)
• Broth & Dairy: 1 L (4 cups) fish stock or water, 200 ml (¾ cup + 2 tbsp) heavy cream, 1 bay leaf
• Seasonings: 2 tsp salt (to taste), ½ tsp ground white pepper, 1 tbsp butter

Perfect for simmering soups, baking casseroles, and serving cozy one-pot meals straight from oven to table.

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Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, leek, and carrot. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 2: Simmer the Vegetables

Add the potatoes, bay leaf, and fish stock (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 12–15 minutes until the potatoes are almost tender.

Step 3: Add the Salmon

Gently add the salmon cubes to the pot. Simmer for 5–6 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through.

Step 4: Finish with Cream

Stir in the heavy cream and chopped dill. Season with salt and white pepper. Simmer for 2–3 more minutes; do not boil.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat. Discard the bay leaf. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with reserved fresh dill.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra richness, add a knob of butter before serving. It is important to adjust the heavy cream amount to your personal preference for a lighter or more indulgent soup.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Smoked salmon can substitute fresh salmon for a deeper flavor profile. If using store-bought stock, check for potential allergens like celery or gluten to maintain the dietary integrity of the dish.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this soup with traditional rye bread or crispbread to complete the Nordic experience and soak up the delicious creamy broth.

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Enjoy this steaming bowl of Finnish tradition at your dining table. It is an easy yet impressive dish that is sure to become a cold-weather favorite for the whole family.

Create smooth frozen drinks, slushies, and frappés for desserts and parties using juices, coffee, or wine.

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Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What makes Finnish salmon soup different from other fish soups?

The unique combination of heavy cream, fresh dill, and white pepper creates a distinctive Nordic flavor profile. The soup maintains a lighter consistency than chowders while still being rich and satisfying.

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this soup?

Yes, frozen salmon works well. Thaw it completely before cutting into cubes, and pat it dry to prevent excess liquid from diluting the broth.

→ What type of potatoes work best?

Waxy or all-purpose potatoes hold their shape best during simmering. Avoid starchy varieties like Russets, which may break apart too easily.

→ How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Add the cream during the final minutes and keep the heat low. Avoid boiling once the dairy is incorporated—gentle simmering maintains the smooth texture.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

The base can be prepared a day in advance, but add the salmon and cream just before serving. Reheat gently to prevent overcooking the fish.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half creates a lighter version, while coconut milk offers a dairy-free alternative with subtle sweetness that complements the dill.