Finnish Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)
Lohikeitto is a traditional Finnish salmon soup known for its creamy texture and mild flavors. It typically includes salmon, potatoes, leeks, and a creamy broth. The dish is easy to prepare at home, taking around 30-40 minutes from start to finish. Below is a simplified version of the recipe and estimated time required for each step.
Ingredients:
• Salmon fillet: 400-500g (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Potatoes: 3-4 medium-sized (peeled and diced)
• Carrot: 1 (peeled and sliced)
• Leek: 1 (cleaned and thinly sliced)
• Butter: 1-2 tablespoons
• Fish stock or water: 4 cups (approx. 1 liter)
• Heavy cream: 1 cup (240ml)
• Salt and pepper: to taste
• Fresh dill: chopped, for garnish
• Bay leaf: 1-2 (optional)
Steps and Estimated Time:
1. Prepare Vegetables (5-10 minutes):
• Peel and dice the potatoes and carrot. Clean and slice the leek thinly. Cut the salmon into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the Vegetables (10-15 minutes):
• In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced leek and sauté until soft.
• Add the diced potatoes and carrot to the pot, and pour in the fish stock or water. Add a bay leaf if using. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add Salmon (5-7 minutes):
• Once the vegetables are cooked, add the salmon pieces to the pot. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through and tender.
4. Add Cream and Season (3-5 minutes):
• Stir in the heavy cream and let the soup heat up for 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil to avoid curdling. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish and Serve (2-3 minutes):
• Remove from heat, and sprinkle fresh dill on top. Serve hot with a slice of rye bread.
Total Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
This creamy salmon soup is comforting and rich in flavor, perfect for a cozy meal. Enjoy your Lohikeitto!
