If you’ve ever dreamed of enjoying a cozy, comforting bowl of soup that feels like a warm hug from the North, Finnish Salmon Soup—known as Lohikeitto—is the answer. This iconic Scandinavian dish is loved for its silky, creamy broth, tender chunks of fish, and the unmistakable freshness of dill.
Traditionally prepared with salmon or trout, Lohikeitto proves that luxury doesn’t have to be expensive. This recipe shows how you can achieve authentic, rich flavor using more affordable red fish such as Chum salmon or Pink salmon, without sacrificing taste or texture.
Perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or when you crave something nourishing yet indulgent, this Finnish salmon soup recipe is simple, elegant, and deeply satisfying.
What Makes Lohikeitto Special?
- Creamy yet light, never heavy
- Naturally flavorful fish-based broth
- Simple ingredients, maximum comfort
- One-pot Scandinavian classic
- Easy to adapt with budget-friendly fish
The magic of Lohikeitto lies in balance: delicate fish, hearty potatoes, gentle spices, and rich cream all working together in harmony.
Ingredients List
The Fish & Stock
- Red Fish (Chum, Pink Salmon, or Trout): 700 g
- Water: enough to cover fish trimmings
- Salt: to taste
The Soup Base
- Onion: 5 small onions or 1 large leek, sliced into rings
- Carrot: 1 medium, cut into small quarters
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Butter: 50 g
- Potatoes: 6 medium, cut into large cubes
Seasoning & Finishing
- Allspice Berries: a few peas
- Bay Leaves: 2
- Ground Pepper Mix: to taste
- Heavy Cream: 500 ml (higher fat = richer soup)
- Fresh Dill: 1 small bunch, finely chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Fish and Flavorful Stock
Begin by skinning and deboning the fish. Cut the fillet into medium-sized cubes and set aside. Do not discard the spine, fins, or head—these are essential for building a rich, authentic stock.
Place the fish trimmings in a pot, cover with water, add a pinch of salt, and simmer for 20 minutes. Once done, strain the broth through a sieve and discard the solids. Set the strained stock aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large soup pot, heat the vegetable oil and melt the butter together. Add the onion or leek and sauté until soft and fragrant. Stir in the carrots and cook until tender.
This step creates a gently sweet and aromatic base that complements the creamy broth beautifully.
3. Simmer with Aromatics
Pour the strained fish stock into the pot. Add the allspice berries and bay leaves. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
After simmering, remove and discard the bay leaves and allspice berries to keep the soup smooth and balanced.
4. Cook the Potatoes
Add the cubed potatoes to the broth. Season with salt and ground pepper to taste. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft and fully cooked.
5. Create the Creamy Base
Pour in the heavy cream and gently bring the soup back to a light boil. This is where Lohikeitto transforms into its signature creamy, luxurious texture.
If the soup feels too thick, simply add a splash of water or extra cream to adjust the consistency.
6. Add the Fish and Fresh Dill
Stir in the chopped dill for a burst of freshness. Add the fish cubes last—they only need 2 minutes to cook through.
Avoid overcooking, as salmon becomes dry quickly. Once the fish turns opaque, remove the pot from heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Finnish salmon soup (Lohikeitto) piping hot in deep bowls. Traditionally enjoyed with rye bread or crusty sourdough, this soup is hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own.
The combination of velvety broth, tender fish, creamy potatoes, and fresh dill creates an unforgettable Nordic dining experience.
Tips for Authentic Flavor
- Always add fish at the very end
- Use fresh dill—never skip it
- Higher-fat cream delivers the best texture
- Homemade fish stock makes a huge difference
This Lohikeitto recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary comfort food. Whether you’re exploring Scandinavian cuisine or just craving a creamy, nourishing soup, Finnish salmon soup delivers warmth, elegance, and timeless flavor in every spoonful.
Enjoy your homemade taste of Finnish soup!