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Lohikeitto (Finnish Salmon Stew)

Lohikeitto is a hearty stew made with salmon and potatoes and a staple in Finland.  Every January, here in Hancock, Michigan, we have a mid-Winter festival called Heikinpaiva, in Finnish it means loosely, 'when the bear rolls over'.  It is a wonderful cultural event and where I first tried Lohikeitto.  The Upper Peninsula of Michigan has the highest concentration of Finnish American's in the United States and Hancock was named the 'Most Finnish city in the US' recently.  Foodie Mama herself is approximately 75% Finnish (and 25% Italian).  Finns aren't necessarily known for their food (no offense to anyone) but this stew is amazing, simple and delicious.  I hope you enjoy!  

Heikinpaiva 2026

 

Ingredients

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 lb potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 pound salmon, skin-off, cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon corn starch
  • juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped, or dried
  • salt to taste


Directions


  • Step 1

    Heat a heavy bottomed pot or dutch oven over medium heat. Add the butter, followed by the onion and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring often, for 5-8 minutes or until the onion is very soft and translucent.

  • Step 2

    Add the black pepper, the potatoes, water and fish sauce. Stir to combine.

  • Step 3

    Bring to a boil and reduce the heat to low, letting the soup simmer for 15 minutes or until the potatoes are just tender.

  • Step 5

    With the soup still simmering, add in the salmon and heavy cream. Stir gently and let simmer for 5-6 minutes.

  • Step 6

    In a small bowl, stir together the cornstarch and a tablespoon of water. Pour into the soup and stir gently to combine, being careful not to break up the salmon. Let simmer for another 2 minutes or until just thickened and the salmon is cooked through.

  • Step 7

    Turn off the heat and add the lemon juice and chopped dill. Stir gently to combine and season to taste with salt and additional pepper if needed. Serve immediately.

     

    Finnish Salmon Stew