Creamy Salmon Soup with Cheese

This creamy salmon soup with cheese is a delightful dish that originates from the rich culinary traditions of the Nordic countries, particularly Latvia. It combines the savory flavors of salmon with the subtle creaminess of melted cheese, offering a comforting and hearty meal perfect for chilly days. This soup celebrates the resourceful use of salmon by incorporating its less utilized parts, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 salmon leftover (head, tail, bones, fins, etc.)
150g fresh salmon flesh
200g melted cheese
2 carrots
2-3 potatoes
1 celery stalk
2 liters of water

Spices and Seasonings

1 bay leaf
3-4 allspice grains
Salt
Dill

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Broth: Place the salmon leftovers (head, tail, bones, fins, and skin) in a large pot. Add 2 liters of water and bring to a boil.
Skim and Season: Skim off any foam that forms. Add a quartered onion, one carrot, a celery stalk, bay leaf, allspice grains, and a pinch of salt. Continue to boil for 30 minutes, removing the bay leaf after 10 minutes.
Prepare the Fresh Fish: While the broth is simmering, cube the fresh salmon.
Prepare the Vegetables: Peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes. Peel and slice the second carrot into rounds.
Strain the Broth: After the broth has simmered, strain it through a sieve into a clean pot and bring it back to a boil.
Add Vegetables: Add the sliced carrots and potatoes to the broth. Let them cook for 20 minutes.
Salvage Salmon Meat: During this time, remove any meat remaining on the salmon bones and add it back to the broth.
Incorporate Cheese: Stir in the melted cheese until it is fully incorporated into the broth.
Add Fresh Salmon: Add the cubed fresh salmon. Once the soup begins to boil again, turn off the heat.
Final Seasonings: Season with salt to taste, and sprinkle with chopped dill before serving.

Serving: Serve immediately while hot. Enjoy a creamy and rich soup that will warm your soul.

Tips

Cheese Choice: Use a mild melted cheese to avoid overpowering the salmon's flavor.
Creamy Texture: For an extra creamy texture, blend a portion of the cooked vegetables before adding them back to the soup.
Extra Flavor: A splash of white wine can be added to the broth for an enhanced aroma.

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
Protein: 20g
Fats: 25g
Carbohydrates: 20g

Variations

Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of melted cheese for a lactose-free version.
Vegetable Additions: Add leeks or parsnips for additional flavors and textures.
Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast.
Garnishes: A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chives can elevate the dish.
Pairings: Complement the soup with a light salad or steamed greens.

Best Places

The Fish Whisperer - A quaint bistro celebrating seafood in all its forms. Location: 123 Ocean Drive, Reykjavik, Iceland.
Nordic Bites - Offers traditional Nordic dishes with a modern twist. Location: 789 Baltic Street, Riga, Latvia.
Salmon & Co. - Known for its innovative use of salmon parts. Location: 456 Fisherman Lane, Helsinki, Finland.
Soup & Soul - Offers a variety of soups inspired by global recipes. Location: 14 Harmony Square, Oslo, Norway.
The Cozy Cauldron - Famed for its hearty, homemade soups. Location: 678 Dreamy Avenue, Stockholm, Sweden.
Serenade of Soups - A charming eatery with a focus on hearty, wholesome foods. Location: 1122 Melody Lane, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Scandinavian Comfort - Known for providing a warm, rustic dining experience. Location: 9 Hearth Street, Bergen, Norway.
The Silver Salmon - A must-visit for fish lovers, specializing in salmon dishes. Location: 200 Ocean View, Edinburgh, Scotland.
Arctic Taste - Combines traditional tastes with contemporary flair. Location: 77 Snowy Road, Kiruna, Sweden.
The Northern Delight - Delivers home-style cooking in the heart of the city. Location: 11 Cozy Corner, Helsinki, Finland.

Explore these top places for an authentic and delightful culinary experience around the world!