As the days grow shorter and a chill settles in the air, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a bowl of Finnish Salmon Soup to warm your soul. The delightful aroma of sautéing leeks and carrots blends seamlessly with the oceanic scent of fresh salmon, creating a dish that feels like a hug from the inside out.

I first encountered this comforting chowder during a cozy dinner party, where it became the star of the evening. Friends were blown away by its creamy texture and vibrant flavors, and within minutes, bowls were being licked clean. This recipe combines simplicity with elegance, giving you a delectable meal that can be ready in no time – perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long day.

So, if you’re seeking a tasty escape from fast food and want to delight in homemade goodness, grab your apron and let’s create a bowlful of comfort together!

Why is Finnish Salmon Soup so comforting?

Warmth in Every Spoonful: This Finnish Salmon Soup wraps you in unparalleled comfort with its creamy and rich texture.
Flavorful Depth: The interplay of tender salmon, sweet leeks, and hearty potatoes creates a symphony of taste that dances on your palate.
Quick to Prepare: With simple steps, you can have this delightful dish ready in no time, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.
Impress Your Guests: Serving this chowder at your next gathering, will leave your friends raving and asking for the recipe!
Versatile Delight: Customize it with your favorite herbs or serve with crusty bread for an unforgettable meal.
Join me in this kitchen adventure and discover the magic of homemade comfort food!

Finnish Salmon Soup Ingredients

For the Chowder Base
• Unsalted butter – This foundation fat adds a rich flavor, making your soup buttery and aromatic.
• Leek – Use only the white part for a sweet, mild onion flavor that perfectly complements the salmon.
• Carrot – Adds a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color to your chowder.
• Potatoes – They act as a hearty base, soaking up the flavors while providing a creamy texture.
• Fish stock – Using a quality fish stock enhances the oceanic taste and gives your soup depth.

For the Salmon and Cream
• Salmon fillets – Fresh, skinned fillets are crucial for a luscious chowder; preferably use wild-caught for the best flavor.
• Double cream – This heavy cream brings a silky smoothness, transforming your chowder into a luxurious dish.
• Dill – Freshly chopped dill elevates the flavors and adds a delightful herbaceous note to the soup.

Seasoning
• Salt and pepper – Essential for boosting the entire flavor profile of your Finnish Salmon Soup.

Unleash your inner chef, and let’s get started on this soul-warming dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

How to Make Finnish Salmon Soup

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. This will create a beautiful base for your chowder, allowing the aromas of your ingredients to blossom.
Sauté the chopped leek and carrot until softened, about 5 minutes. Their sweetness will start to fill your kitchen with a delightful fragrance!
Stir in the potatoes and pour in the fish stock, bringing it to a boil. This step will combine all the flavors beautifully and create a hearty, delicious chowder.
Reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, approximately 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they can be easily pierced with a fork.
Add the salmon cubes and cook until just cooked through, about 5 minutes. Your chowder will transform into a creamy, seafood delight full of texture!
Stir in the double cream and dill, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. This final touch creates a luxurious finish to your chowder that’s hard to resist.

Optional: Garnish with extra dill or a squeeze of lemon for added freshness!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Finnish Salmon Soup Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful chowder and make it truly yours!

Dairy-Free: Substitute double cream with coconut milk for a unique twist while keeping it creamy and rich.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an unexpected heat that complements the fish beautifully.
Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of fish stock, and swap the salmon for hearty chickpeas for protein-packed goodness.
Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh tarragon or chives in place of dill for a refreshing change that brightens the flavors.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked salmon instead of fresh for a depth of flavor that takes this chowder to new heights.
Crustacean Twist: Replace salmon with shrimp or crab for a delectable seafood medley that will wow your taste buds.
Sweet Surprise: Adding corn or sweet peas will bring a delightful sweetness, balancing the savory elements of your chowder.
Texture Variations: For added crunch, top with toasted breadcrumbs or croutons, giving each bowl a satisfying texture contrast!

Make Ahead Options

These Finnish Salmon Soup preparations make it the perfect candidate for meal prep! You can chop the leeks, carrots, and potatoes and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. To maintain their quality, make sure to refrigerate the chopped vegetables immediately after prepping to avoid browning. Additionally, you can prepare the soup base (steps 1-4) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before adding the salmon and cream. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chowder on the stove, stir in the salmon, and cook until just cooked through, adding the cream and dill at the end. This way, you can enjoy all the comforting flavors of Finnish Salmon Soup with minimal effort on busy nights!

How to Store and Freeze Finnish Salmon Soup

Fridge: Store leftover Finnish Salmon Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat to preserve the creamy texture.

Freezer: Freeze the chowder in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain flavor and consistency.

Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of fish stock or cream to restore creaminess and stir gently until heated through. Avoid boiling to keep the salmon tender.

Airtight Storage: Always ensure the chowder is cooled before storing. This prevents condensation, which can dilute the flavors during storage.

Expert Tips for Finnish Salmon Soup

Quality Stock Matters: Use high-quality fish stock for the best flavor. Avoid low-sodium versions as they can lead to a bland chowder.
Perfectly Cooked Salmon: Be careful not to overcook the salmon; it should flake easily but remain moist. Just 5 minutes in the simmering pot is enough.
Consistency Check: If your chowder is too thick, add a bit more fish stock or cream until you reach your desired consistency.
Herb Variations: While dill is a classic, feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or parsley to bring new flavors to your Finnish Salmon Soup.
Prep Ahead: You can chop the vegetables in advance, saving time on busy evenings and allowing the flavors to meld beautifully!

What to Serve with Finnish Salmon Soup?

Transform your delightful bowl of chowder into a comforting feast with these perfect pairings.

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is essential for dunking into the savory chowder, enhancing the overall experience with every bite.
Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the soup, adding crispness and brightness to your meal.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Their creamy texture mirrors the soup, offering an indulgent side that elevates the dining experience with a touch of comfort.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts adds crunch and depth, creating a delightful contrast to the soft chowder.
Lemon Wedge: A simple lemon wedge to squeeze over your soup brightens the flavors, cutting through the richness and adding a zesty note.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay complements the flavors perfectly, enhancing the seafood experience with its crisp acidity.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light chocolate mousse will provide a sweet finish, offering a velvety texture that rounds out the meal beautifully.

Finnish Salmon Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of leeks should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Use fresh leeks, focusing on the white part only for the best flavor. Look for leeks that are firm and free of any dark spots. The white portion provides a sweet and mild onion taste that enhances your chowder beautifully.

How can I store leftover Finnish Salmon Soup?
Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container, where it can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop. I always recommend adding a splash of fish stock or cream during reheating to restore its creamy texture!

Can I freeze Finnish Salmon Soup?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze this chowder! Pour it into portion-sized containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, do so gently on the stove, stirring in a bit of cream or stock to bring back the beautiful consistency.

What should I do if my chowder is too thick?
If you find your chowder is too thick for your liking, don’t worry! Just add a little more fish stock or double cream until it reaches your desired consistency. This will bring back that luscious texture and make every spoonful delightful!

Is this Finnish Salmon Soup suitable for people with allergies?
Absolutely! Just be cautious with the ingredients. This recipe contains dairy due to the cream, so if lactose is a concern, you can use lactose-free cream or even a plant-based alternative. Also, ensure that the fish stock is allergen-free based on your individual dietary needs.

Can I use frozen salmon in this chowder?
Very! You can use frozen salmon; just make sure to thaw it completely before cutting it into cubes. If using frozen, I recommend adding it a minute or two earlier while cooking to ensure it cooks through evenly without losing its buttery texture.