
Cold weather calls for soup season, and this Finnish Salmon Soup is one I can’t stop making. It hits all the right notes—creamy, flavorful, and incredibly simple to prepare. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
What I love most about this soup is how it takes just a few humble ingredients—salmon, potatoes, leeks, and carrots—and turns them into something so comforting and satisfying.
There’s no fuss, no unnecessary extras, just clean, wholesome flavors that really shine through.
Why This Soup is Perfect for Winter
When the temperatures drop, we all crave meals that warm us from the inside out. This soup does just that, without feeling heavy.
The creamy broth, tender chunks of salmon, and hearty vegetables make it feel indulgent, while still being light enough to leave you feeling good.
Because this recipe is so simple, the quality of your ingredients really matters. Opt for fresh, organic carrots, buttery potatoes, and wild-caught salmon—each of these elevates the final dish in a way that’s well worth it.
What Makes This Soup Special?
This Finnish classic, known as lohikeitto, is beloved for good reason.
The combination of creamy broth, delicate salmon, sweet leeks, and a hint of dill creates a flavor that’s as cozy as it is fresh. A squeeze of lemon adds just the right pop of brightness to balance it all out.
And it’s not just delicious—it’s packed with nutrition, too:
Omega-3 Power from Salmon
Salmon is a nutritional powerhouse, loaded with omega-3 fatty acids that reduce inflammation, support brain health, and help balance hormones. It’s the perfect ingredient for a hearty yet nourishing winter meal.
Leeks: The Gut Health Here
Leeks bring a subtle sweetness to the soup and are rich in prebiotics, which feed the good bacteria in your gut. A healthy gut can improve digestion, boost immunity, and even regulate your mood—a win during the colder months when we all need a little extra care.
Quick, Easy, and Even Better the Next Day
One of the best things about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together. Everything happens in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze. It’s the kind of meal you can pull together on a busy evening but feels special enough for a cozy weekend dinner.
And here’s a little secret—it tastes even better when reheated. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers something to look forward to. Pair it with some crusty bread or rye crackers for the ultimate comforting meal.
Recipe: Finnish Salmon Soup
Ingredients (Serves 4):
50 g unsalted butter
2 leeks, sliced (white and light green parts only)
500 ml vegetable stock + 750 ml water
450 g potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 large carrot (or 2 small), peeled and sliced
450 g salmon fillet, de-skinned and cut into approx. 2 cm pieces
250 ml heavy cream
10 g fresh dill, finely chopped, for garnish
2 bay leaves
1–2 allspice berries
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 organic lemon, cut into wedges
Instructions:
Sauté the Leeks: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and sauté until soft and translucent, about 6–7 minutes.
Cook the Vegetables: Add the sliced carrots and cubed potatoes to the pot. Stir to coat them in the butter and sauté for another 2–3 minutes to enhance their flavor.
Simmer the Broth: Pour in the vegetable stock and water, then add the bay leaves and allspice berries. Bring the soup to a boil, reduce the heat to medium, and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are just tender.
Add the Salmon and Cream: Gently add the salmon pieces to the pot, then pour in the heavy cream. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 3–4 minutes, allowing the salmon to cook through while staying tender. Avoid boiling to prevent overcooking.
Season and Rest: Turn off the heat, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and stir in the dill. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup rest for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with extra dill if desired, and serve with lemon wedges for a fresh, zesty finish.
Why You’ll Love It
This Finnish Salmon Soup is comfort food at its best—simple, nourishing, and packed with flavor. It’s a bowl of warmth that’s perfect for cold winter days when you want something satisfying but easy to make.
So grab your favorite pot, and give this recipe a try. Whether it’s for a quick dinner or a cozy weekend meal, it’s sure to become one of your winter staples.
And don’t forget—save some for the next day. It might just taste even better when reheated. 😊
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