Finnish Salmon Soup, or Lohikeitto, is a beloved Nordic dish known for its comforting and hearty qualities. This creamy soup combines tender salmon fillets, Yukon gold potatoes, sweet carrots, and aromatic leeks, all simmered in a flavorful seafood stock. The addition of crème fraîche at the end imparts a rich, velvety texture, while fresh dill provides a burst of herbal brightness. Perfect for chilly days, this gluten-free soup offers a taste of Finnish culinary tradition and is both nourishing and satisfying.
1½ lbs fresh skinless salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 large carrots, peeled and cut into ¼-inch thick rounds
2 medium leeks, rinsed well and thinly sliced
1 lb Yukon gold potatoes, cut into ¾-inch pieces
4 cups seafood stock
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
¾ – 1 cup crème fraîche
1 bunch fresh dill (about 1 cup chopped), plus more for serving
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced carrots and leeks, season with ½ tsp kosher salt, and cook until softened, about 8–10 minutes.
Add the Potatoes and Stock: Add the cubed potatoes and seafood stock to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Cook the Salmon: Once the potatoes are tender, add the cubed salmon and crème fraîche to the pot. Stir gently to combine, cover, and simmer for 3–5 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.
Finish the Soup: Stir in the chopped fresh dill, then taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with additional fresh dill and freshly ground black pepper. Serve hot.
Calories: Approximately 377 kcal
Protein: ~30g
Fat: ~24g
Carbohydrates: ~18g
Fiber: ~3g
Cholesterol: ~70mg
Sodium: ~600mg