Name: Easy Finnish Salmon Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter; 2 leeks (white and light green parts), sliced; 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced; 1 lb (450g) fresh salmon fillets (skinless), cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 lb (450g) baby potatoes, quartered; 6 cups (1.5 l) fish or vegetable broth; 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream/double cream (or coconut milk); 1 bay leaf; Pinch of allspice; Salt and pepper, to taste; Handful of fresh dill, chopped (plus more for garnish); 1/2 lemon, juiced (optional)

JUMP TO RECIPE PRINT RECIPE

This Easy Finnish Salmon Soup, also known as Lohikeitto, is a traditional Finnish soup that combines fresh salmon fillets with vegetables, herbs and creamy broth. It’s super easy to make which makes it perfect for both weeknight and Sunday dinner. Ready in just 35 minutes!

WHAT IS FINNISH SALMON SOUP

Finnish Salmon Soup, also known as Lohikeitto, is a traditional Finnish dish that showcases the country’s love for seafood. It typically features fresh salmon simmered in a creamy broth with vegetables and herbs. The result is a delicious and nourishing soup that’s perfect for cold winter nights or any time you’re craving a comforting meal.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED

Salmon fillets: Choose high-quality, skinless salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture.
Leeks and carrots: These vegetables add nutrients and form an aromatic base of this soup.
Unsalted butter
Baby potatoes: Use baby potatoes for their tender texture and quick cooking time.
Fish or vegetable broth: Traditional Finnish recipe calls for fish broth, but I know it can be hard to find, so I usually use good-quality vegetable broth. If you’d like to add more “fishy” flavour, you can add a tiny amount of fish sauce to the broth.
Heavy cream or coconut milk: For a rich and creamy texture, use heavy cream/double cream or coconut milk to finish the soup.
Spices: You’ll need bay leaf, allspice, salt and black pepper.
Fresh dill: Dill adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the salmon really well.
Lemon juice: It’s optional, but I like to finish this salmon soup with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to add a refreshing acidity.

HOW TO MAKE FINNISH SALMON SOUP

Please note: This is just an overview – the full ingredients and directions are in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Step 1: Sauté vegetables. Sauté the leeks and carrots in butter until softened for about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add potatoes and broth. Add the potatoes, broth, bay leaf, allspice, salt, and pepper, and simmer until the vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Add salmon and simmer. Gently stir in the salmon and simmer until cooked through.

Step 4: Add cream and fresh dill. Pour in the cream and add fresh dill, stirring well to combine.

Step 5: Adjust seasoning and serve. Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve hot, garnished with more dill and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

STORING AND FREEZING

Finnish Salmon Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I don’t recommend freezing this salmon soup due to the high cream content.

TOP TIPS

Don’t overcook the salmon: Overcooked salmon becomes dry and tough, so make sure to add salmon when you’re ready to serve, allowing it to simmer in the soup for about 5 minutes.

Add fresh lemon juice: Lemon juice pairs really well with salmon, so I personally like to add a tiny squeeze of lemon to the serving bowls.

Be generous with dill: Fresh dill really takes this salmon soup recipe to the next level, so make sure to add lots of it!

You may also enjoy…

Rich & Creamy Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Roasted Garlic Potatoes au Gratin

One-Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Roasted Cauliflower Cheddar Soup

Caprese Stuffed Chicken

FAQ

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Of course! Feel free to customize this salmon recipe by adding your favorite vegetables such as peas, spinach, or broccoli.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to extend the cooking time accordingly.