This Finnish Salmon Soup, known as Lohikeitto, is a traditional dish that’s comforting, creamy, and full of flavor. It’s a hearty soup that’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter (approximately 50 grams)
- 1 leek, finely chopped (use only the white and pale green parts)
- 5 cups (1.25 liters) fish stock (or water as a substitute)
- 1 lb (450 grams) potatoes, cubed
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1 lb (450 grams) salmon fillet, de-boned, de-skinned, and cut into small chunks
- 1 cup (250 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (10 grams) fresh dill, finely chopped, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Base:
- In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sliced leek and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Stock and Vegetables:
- Add the fish broth (or water) to the pot and bring it to a rolling boil.
- Stir in the diced potatoes and thinly sliced carrot. Lower the heat and let it simmer gently for around 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and cooked through.
- Add the Salmon:
- Gently add the salmon chunks to the pot. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Finish with Cream:
- Stir in the heavy cream and let the soup heat through for a few minutes. Do not let it boil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with finely chopped fresh dill.
Conclusion:
This Finnish Salmon Soup is a delightful and nourishing dish that’s simple to prepare yet rich in flavor. The combination of tender salmon, creamy broth, and aromatic dill makes it a comforting meal that’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy it with some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.