lohikeitto

Lohikeitto is a traditional Finnish salmon soup. It is a comforting, dairy-based soup typically made with salmon, potatoes, onions, and carrots, enriched with milk or cream and seasoned with fresh dill. The dish is commonly eaten as a main course and is widely associated with Finnish home cooking.

Preparation: Sauté chopped onions in butter until translucent. Add diced potatoes and sliced carrots; pour in fish stock or water; simmer until potatoes are nearly tender. Add chunks of salmon and simmer gently until the fish is just cooked. Stir in milk or cream, simmer briefly, and season with salt and white pepper. Finish with chopped dill and, if desired, a squeeze of lemon. Serve hot with rye bread or crusty bread.

Variations: The recipe can be made with fresh or previously frozen salmon, and dairy can be adjusted to taste—cream yields a richer soup, while milk makes a lighter version. Some cooks use fish stock as the base; others rely on water with added bouillon. The dish may also appear with optional carrots or with sour cream added at the end.

Cultural note: Lohikeitto is a staple in Finnish cuisine and is often associated with winter meals and family gatherings. It reflects Finland’s access to fresh salmon and the tradition of simple, wholesome meals prepared from few ingredients.