Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

Name: Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Finnish
Ingredients: 30 g unsalted butter; 1 large leek, finely chopped (white part only); 1 medium carrot, chopped; 5 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch cubes (about 400 g); 1.25 litres fish stock; 450 g salmon fillets, skinned and cut into 1-inch cubes; 150 ml double cream (heavy cream); 1 bunch dill, roughly chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: February 21, 2026

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This Finnish salmon soup requires minimal prep time and simple steps, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
Rich in Flavor: The combination of fresh ingredients, including dill and creamy fish stock, creates a delightful taste that’s sure to impress.
Comforting Warmth: Perfect for cold winter days, this soup offers warmth and comfort with every spoonful.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily modify the recipe by using different vegetables or stocks based on what you have at home.
Healthy Option: Packed with nutritious ingredients like salmon and vegetables, this soup is both delicious and good for you.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto), you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large heavy-bottomed pot
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

Large heavy-bottomed pot: This ensures even heat distribution while cooking, preventing food from burning or sticking.
Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for better cooking.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance in your soup.

Ingredients

30 g (ounce) unsalted butter
1 large leek, finely chopped (white part only)
1 medium carrot, chopped
5 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch cubes (about 400 g) (14 oz)
1.25 (5 cups) litres fish stock
450 g (15.8 oz) salmon fillets, skinned and cut into 1-inch cubes
150 ml (1.7 fl oz) double cream (heavy cream)
1 bunch dill, roughly chopped (about 75 grams) (2.6 oz)
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Melt the butter in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the chopped leek.
– Sauté for about 7-8 minutes until the leek softens.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes and Carrots

Add the chopped carrot and potatoes to the pot.
– Pour in the fish stock until it covers the vegetables.
– Cook for approximately 10 minutes until the potatoes are almost fork-tender.

Step 3: Add Salmon and Cream

Introduce the salmon chunks into the pot along with double cream.
– Simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.

Step 4: Finish with Dill

Stir in the roughly chopped dill.
– Simmer for another minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot. Enjoy your warm bowl of Finnish salmon soup!

How to Serve Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

Serving Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto) can elevate your dining experience. This creamy dish is not only comforting but also versatile in its presentation. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Dill: Adding a sprinkle of fresh dill on top of each bowl adds flavor and a beautiful touch.
Chives: Finely chopped chives offer a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

Pair with Crusty Bread

Sourdough Bread: A slice of warm sourdough complements the soup’s creaminess perfectly.
Rye Bread: Traditional Finnish rye bread pairs well, offering a hearty texture and taste.

Add a Touch of Citrus

Lemon Wedge: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add a zesty brightness to their soup.
Lime Zest: A sprinkle of lime zest just before serving can enhance the flavors further.

Serve with a Side Salad

Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds crunch and freshness.

How to Perfect Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

To ensure your Finnish salmon soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these essential tips. They will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh salmon and vegetables for optimal taste and nutrition.
Control the Heat: Keep the heat medium-low when cooking to prevent overcooking the salmon.
Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, reduce the amount of double cream or use a plant-based alternative.
Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning at different stages to find the perfect balance of flavors.
Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully.
Experiment with Broths: Try using homemade or high-quality store-bought fish stock for richer flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

Pairing side dishes with your Finnish salmon soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some ideal accompaniments that work well.

Crusty Baguette: Perfect for dipping into the creamy broth; warm it up before serving!
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide additional nutrients and complement the soup’s flavors.
Potato Salad: A light potato salad dressed in vinegar keeps it fresh while echoing ingredients from the soup.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a vibrant color contrast and an earthy taste.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the creaminess of the soup nicely.
Quinoa Salad: A nutritious quinoa salad with herbs can be both filling and refreshing alongside lohikeitto.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto) can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

Using the wrong type of fish: Always choose fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture. Frozen salmon can work, but be sure it’s properly thawed before cooking.
Overcooking the potatoes: If you cook the potatoes too long, they become mushy. Aim for fork-tender without losing their shape.
Neglecting seasoning: Taste your soup as you cook! Adding salt and pepper gradually can enhance the overall flavor.
Skipping the dill: Dill is essential in Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto) for that authentic taste. Don’t overlook this key herb!
Not simmering gently: Boiling the soup can break apart the salmon. Keep it at a gentle simmer for tender pieces.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keeps well for up to 3 days.

Freezing Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), transfer soup to a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto).

What is Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)?

Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto) is a creamy dish made with fresh salmon, potatoes, and dill. It’s hearty and perfect for cold weather.

Can I use other types of fish?

Yes! While traditional lohikeitto uses salmon, you can also try trout or white fish as alternatives.

Is Finnish Salmon Soup healthy?

Absolutely! This soup is rich in protein from the salmon and has nutritious vegetables like potatoes and carrots.

Can I make Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto) dairy-free?

Yes! Replace double cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative for a dairy-free version.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Finnish Salmon Soup?

Consider adding lemon juice or zest just before serving. A splash of vinegar can also brighten up the flavors!

Final Thoughts

Finnish salmon soup (lohikeitto) is warming, filling, and versatile. It’s perfect on chilly evenings or as a comforting meal any time of year. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs!