Name: Easy Finnish Salmon Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Finnish
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)

Why You’ll Love Easy Finnish Salmon Soup Recipe

This soup is warm, creamy, and full of fresh flavor. The salmon cooks quickly, the potatoes make it hearty, and the dill gives it a bright, classic Nordic taste. It is ready in about 35 minutes and uses simple ingredients that come together beautifully in one pot.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
1 lb fresh skinless salmon fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 lb baby potatoes, quartered
6 cups fish or vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream, double cream, or coconut milk
1 bay leaf
Pinch of allspice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh dill, chopped
1/2 lemon, juiced, optional

Directions

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and carrots, season with a pinch of salt, and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.

Add the potatoes, broth, bay leaf, allspice, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

Gently stir in the salmon pieces and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.

Pour in the cream and stir in plenty of fresh dill. Keep the heat low and do not let the soup boil after adding the cream.

Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Serve hot, garnished with more fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version with a slightly lighter flavor.

Add celery, parsnips, or fennel for extra vegetable flavor.

Use fish broth for a deeper seafood taste or vegetable broth for a milder soup.

Add a small splash of lemon juice at the end for brightness.

For a thicker soup, lightly mash a few potatoes in the pot before adding the salmon.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat until warmed through. Avoid boiling, as this can make the cream separate and the salmon become tough.

Freezing is not ideal because creamy soups with potatoes can change texture after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, frozen salmon works well. Thaw it completely first, then cut it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the soup.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the soup will be lighter and less rich. For best results, use whole milk and avoid boiling it.

What type of salmon is best?

Fresh skinless salmon fillets are ideal. Choose salmon that smells fresh and has a firm texture.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, replace the butter with oil and use coconut milk instead of cream.

Can I use regular potatoes?

Yes, regular potatoes work well. Peel them if desired and cut them into small chunks so they cook evenly.

Why should I not boil the soup after adding cream?

Boiling can cause the cream to separate and may make the salmon less tender.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but it is best served fresh. Reheat gently and add extra dill before serving.

What can I serve with Finnish Salmon Soup?

It pairs well with crusty bread, rye bread, or a simple green salad.

Can I add more dill?

Yes, dill is a key flavor in this soup, so you can add more to taste.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

The salmon is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Conclusion

Easy Finnish Salmon Soup is creamy, fresh, and deeply comforting. With tender salmon, hearty potatoes, sweet leeks, carrots, and plenty of dill, it is a simple one-pot meal that feels warm and satisfying every time.