Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto): A Delicious Taste of Finland’s Culinary Tradition

When it comes to traditional comfort food, few dishes are as comforting as Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto). This dish is not just a meal but an experience—a perfect blend of creamy broth, tender salmon, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Lohikeitto is a staple in Finnish cuisine, loved for its simplicity, warmth, and heartiness, making it the perfect dish for cold, snowy winters or any time you crave a nourishing meal.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the history, ingredients, step-by-step recipe, and variations of Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto), as well as why this dish has earned a special place in the hearts of Finns and food lovers worldwide.

What is Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)?

Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto) is a creamy, flavorful soup made primarily with fresh salmon, potatoes, leeks, and carrots, all simmered together in a rich fish stock or vegetable broth, and finished with a touch of cream. This comforting dish is often served with rye bread and butter on the side, making it a complete, satisfying meal.

Lohikeitto is one of the most popular and beloved soups in Finland, where it is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. The soup is often made with fresh, wild-caught salmon from the cold, clear waters surrounding Finland, adding to its deep, rich flavor. While it can be enjoyed year-round, it is especially cherished during Finland’s long winters, providing warmth and nourishment on the coldest of days.

History of Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

The origins of Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto) can be traced back to the traditional fishing communities along the rivers, lakes, and seas of Finland. Salmon has been a prominent part of the Finnish diet for centuries, and as Finland is surrounded by water on three sides, it’s no surprise that fish soups became a significant part of their culinary heritage.

In Finnish households, Lohikeitto has always been a simple, yet satisfying dish that reflects the country’s connection to nature and the bounty of the sea. The soup was historically made with freshly caught fish, which was then cooked in a stock made from the fish heads or bones, alongside root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and leeks. The addition of cream was a later development, which brought a creamy richness to the soup, making it even more decadent and beloved.

The dish is a reflection of the Finnish way of life: valuing simplicity, respect for nature, and the use of fresh, local ingredients.

Ingredients for Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

To create a traditional bowl of Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto), you’ll need just a handful of fresh ingredients. Each ingredient plays a role in creating the soup’s signature creamy texture and rich flavor.

Main Ingredients:

Fresh Salmon (about 1 lb or 450g): Use skinless and boneless fillets for the best results. Wild-caught salmon is ideal if available, but farmed salmon works well too.
Potatoes (3-4 medium): Peeled and cubed, potatoes provide the soup with a hearty, filling base.
Carrots (2 medium): Sliced thinly or julienned, carrots add sweetness and color to the soup.
Leeks (1-2): Thinly sliced leeks lend a delicate, onion-like flavor to the broth.
Fish Stock or Vegetable Broth (4 cups): This serves as the liquid base of the soup. If you don’t have fish stock, a good vegetable broth can work well.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): Adds richness and creaminess to the soup.
Butter (2 tbsp): For sautéing the vegetables and adding a bit of richness.
Dill (fresh, about 2 tbsp chopped): Dill is a key herb in Finnish cuisine and adds a fresh, slightly tangy flavor that complements the salmon beautifully.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): For seasoning the soup.

Optional Ingredients:

White Wine (1/4 cup): Some recipes call for a splash of white wine to enhance the flavor of the broth.
Lemon Juice (from 1 lemon): A squeeze of lemon can brighten up the dish and balance the richness of the cream.

How to Make Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto): A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you know the essential ingredients, it’s time to dive into the step-by-step process of making Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto). Don’t worry, the recipe is simple and easy to follow, with only a few stages that make it both quick and comforting.

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
Peel and slice the carrots into thin rounds or julienne them if you prefer.
Trim and slice the leeks into thin rings. Make sure to rinse the leeks well to remove any sand or grit that might be hiding in the layers.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the sliced leeks and sauté for about 5 minutes, until they soften and become fragrant.
Add the carrots and sauté for another 2 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Broth

Add the potatoes to the pot along with the fish stock (or vegetable broth).
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Add the Salmon

Once the vegetables are tender, add the fresh salmon fillets to the pot, breaking them into large chunks if desired.
Let the salmon cook in the simmering broth for 5-7 minutes, or until it’s just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the salmon, as it can become dry and tough.

Step 5: Add the Cream

Once the salmon is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add a splash of white wine if desired.
Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Final Touches

Just before serving, add the freshly chopped dill and stir it into the soup for that signature herbaceous flavor.
Squeeze a bit of lemon juice into the soup for a bright, zesty finish (optional).

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with a few extra sprigs of dill, and serve with rye bread or crusty butter bread on the side.
Enjoy your Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto) with family or friends, savoring the warmth and richness of this classic dish.

Variations of Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

While the classic Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto) recipe is beloved for its simplicity, there are many ways to customize it based on your tastes or what you have available. Here are a few variations to try:

1. Lohikeitto with Smoked Salmon

For a deeper, smokier flavor, try using smoked salmon instead of fresh. This variation will give the soup a more intense, savory taste, and is perfect if you’re looking to add a bit of extra richness.

2. Lohikeitto with Vegetables

If you prefer a lighter, more vegetable-forward version, you can add extra vegetables like celery, parsnips, or green peas. These vegetables will complement the salmon and add more texture to the soup.

3. Lohikeitto with Garlic and White Wine

For an aromatic twist, try adding garlic and a splash of white wine to the broth. The garlic will infuse the soup with a rich, savory flavor, while the white wine adds a subtle acidity that helps balance the richness of the cream.

4. Lohikeitto with Dill Pickles

In some parts of Finland, dill pickles are served alongside Lohikeitto for added tang and crunch. You can either serve them as a side dish or chop them into the soup for a zesty kick.

Why You’ll Love Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

1. A Cozy Comfort Food

Nothing beats the feeling of cozying up with a warm bowl of soup, and Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto) is the perfect dish to bring comfort to cold days. The creamy broth and tender salmon provide both nourishment and satisfaction.

2. Packed with Flavor

The combination of rich salmon, creamy broth, and fresh herbs makes this soup incredibly flavorful. The salmon provides a subtle yet distinctive taste, while the potatoes and carrots add sweetness and texture.

3. Nutritious and Hearty

With its combination of fresh fish, vegetables, and cream, Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto) is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. Salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and protein, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Conclusion

Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto) is a dish that brings the flavors of Finland right to your kitchen. With its creamy broth, tender salmon, and fresh vegetables, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold winter day or as a light yet hearty dinner, Lohikeitto is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

By following this simple recipe, you can experience the rich flavors of Finnish cuisine and share the warmth of this traditional dish with friends and family. Give it a try today, and discover why Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto) is a beloved dish in Finland and beyond!Categories