Lohikeitto

About Lohikeitto

Lohikeitto is a traditional Finnish salmon soup known for its simplicity and rich flavors. This beloved dish is a staple in Finnish cuisine and is often enjoyed during the cold months. The history of Lohikeitto can be traced back to the fishing villages of Finland, where fresh salmon and locally grown vegetables were readily available, making it a nutritious and hearty meal for fishermen and their families.

This soup exemplifies the minimalistic approach of Nordic cooking, focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients with subtle seasoning. Its creamy texture and delicate taste come from the harmonious blend of salmon, potatoes, carrots, leeks, and dill, simmered in a creamy broth. Over time, Lohikeitto has become popular beyond the Finnish borders, appreciated for its warmth and comfort.

Ingredients

• Salmon - 500g, boneless and skinless fillets
• Potatoes - 300g, peeled and diced
• Carrots - 150g, peeled and sliced
• Leeks - one leek, thinly sliced
• Dill - a small bunch, chopped
• Fish stock - 1 liter
• Heavy cream - 200 ml
• Butter - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - to taste
• White pepper - to taste

Preparation

Start by preparing all your ingredients. Dice the salmon into bite-sized pieces and set it aside. Peel and dice the potatoes, and slice the carrots and leeks. Finely chop the dill, which will be used for garnishing at the end.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and sauté until they become soft and translucent. This process should take about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent any browning.

Step 2: Build the Soup

Add the diced potatoes and carrots to the pot with the softened leeks. Pour in the fish stock, ensuring that all the vegetables are submerged. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.

Step 3: Add the Salmon

Gently add the salmon pieces to the pot. Let them cook in the simmering soup for about 5 minutes or until just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the fish, as it should remain tender and flaky.

Step 4: Finish the Soup

Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and white pepper to taste. Heat the soup gently, ensuring that it does not boil, for a further 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Enjoying Lohikeitto

Lohikeitto is best enjoyed as a warm, hearty meal, perfect for lunch or dinner. Serve it in deep bowls, garnished with a generous sprinkle of fresh dill on top to enhance its aromatic qualities.

This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of rye bread or a piece of your favorite crusty bread, ideal for soaking up the creamy broth.

To manage your cooking time efficiently, consider using a cooking timer to keep track of the different steps, ensuring that each component of the meal is cooked to perfection. Sit back and enjoy this comforting Nordic classic, bringing a piece of Finnish culinary heritage to your table.