As the sun begins to set and the chill of the evening air creeps in, there’s a warmth that envelops my kitchen, guided by the tantalizing aroma of this Creamy Norwegian Fish Soup. It’s incredible how the scent of melting butter mingling with sautéing leeks and a hint of allspice can transport me to the cozy coastal towns of Norway.
This dish may sound fancy, but don’t let that fool you. It comes together in just about 50 minutes, making it an ideal recipe for a weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering with friends. Packed with tender chunks of salmon, cod, and plump shrimp, this soup is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. Add in a sprinkle of fresh dill and serve it alongside warm rye rolls, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing feast that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
So, if you’re ready to elevate your dining experience beyond the usual takeout, grab your apron and let’s dive into this creamy delight that marries simplicity with gourmet flavors!
Why is Creamy Norwegian Fish Soup unforgettable?
Simplicity at its finest: With just a handful of ingredients, this soup comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for home cooks of any skill level.
Rich, savory flavor: The exquisite blend of seafood, vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a symphony of tastes that dance on your palate.
Comfort food done right: Think of this soup as a warm hug on a cold day, combining creamy textures with hearty seafood pieces.
Versatile and adaptable: Feel free to mix in your favorite fish or seasonal veggies for a personalized touch.
Crowd-pleaser: This dish promises to impress at dinner parties, making it a dish everyone will adore.
For more comforting recipes that are sure to please, check out our delightful collection of cozy soups.
Creamy Norwegian Fish Soup Ingredients
• Discover the essential items for perfecting your creamy dish!
For the Base
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness and depth to your soup; don’t substitute with salted butter to control saltiness.
- Leeks – Offer a sweet, mild onion flavor; make sure to clean them thoroughly before using.
- Kosher salt – Use this versatile salt for seasoning throughout; it dissolves easily and enhances flavor.
- Allspice – A hint of warmth that elevates the soup’s taste; feel free to adjust according to your preference.
- Black pepper – Adds a touch of heat; freshly ground will enhance the soup’s aroma.
For the Vegetables
- Potatoes – These provide heartiness; make sure to cut them into even pieces for consistent cooking.
- Parsnips – Offer a subtle sweetness; can be substituted with carrots if desired.
- Carrots – Their vibrant color and flavor brighten up the soup; slice them thick enough to maintain their texture.
For the Seafood
- Fish stock – The soul of your soup; use homemade stock for richer flavors or a high-quality store brand in a pinch.
- Heavy cream – Imparts a luxurious creaminess; opting for light cream will reduce richness but not flavor.
- Salmon – Choose fresh salmon fillets for bold taste; its oiliness complements the other seafood beautifully.
- Cod – Delicate and flaky; you can substitute with halibut if cod is unavailable.
- Shrimp – Fresh or frozen shrimp adds a delightful sweetness; ensure they’re peeled and deveined before adding.
For Garnishing
- Fresh dill – Elevates the soup with its herbaceous notes; can be replaced with parsley if dill isn’t available.
This Creamy Norwegian Fish Soup will surely bring warmth and joy to your kitchen. Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this comforting bowl of goodness!
How to Make Creamy Norwegian Fish Soup
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Melt butter: In a large stock pot, add unsalted butter over medium heat until melted. Stir in the cleaned leeks and season generously with salt. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the leeks begin to soften, then add ½ teaspoon of allspice if desired, stirring to toast the spices.
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Add vegetables: Mix in the quartered potatoes, sliced carrots, and parsnips along with the fish stock. Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.
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Boil gently: Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover it. Cook for 7-9 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender, ensuring they don’t overcook.
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Pour in cream: Once the potatoes are softened, reduce the heat to low. Carefully pour in the heavy cream, then add chunks of salmon, cod, and shrimp along with more salt, pepper, and fresh dill.
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Simmer slowly: Stir the soup gently over low heat until the shrimp and fish are cooked through, which will take about 4-5 minutes. Avoid overcooking for best results.
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Finish and serve: Taste your soup and adjust flavors as necessary with fresh dill, black pepper, and salt. Serve it hot with freshly made rye rolls topped with butter for a delightful meal.
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh dill for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Creamy Norwegian Fish Soup ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes during busy weeknights! You can chop the leeks, carrots, and parsnips and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can prepare the base by cooking the leeks and adding the fish stock, which can also be stored in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply reheat the base, add the cream, and the seafood, cooking it just until the shrimp and fish are tender (about 4-5 minutes). This method ensures you’ll still have a comforting, delicious meal with minimal effort, just as good as if you had made it fresh!
Expert Tips for Creamy Norwegian Fish Soup
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Quality Ingredients: Use fresh seafood and high-quality fish stock for the best flavor. This is essential for a standout Creamy Norwegian Fish Soup.
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Cut Evenly: Ensure your vegetables are cut into uniform sizes to promote even cooking; this avoids mushy potatoes or undercooked carrots.
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Don’t Overcook: Pay attention to cooking times for seafood; shrimp and fish can become tough if overcooked. Aim for tender bites that melt in your mouth.
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Layer Flavors: Remember to season at each step! Add salt and pepper while cooking, but taste before serving to get the perfect balance.
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Garnish Generously: Fresh dill adds not just flavor, but visual appeal. Never skip the garnish to elevate the soup’s presentation!
Creamy Norwegian Fish Soup Variations
Feel free to mix it up and add your own twist to this delightful recipe!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a light and tropical taste, perfect for those avoiding dairy.
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Vegetable Boost: Add cubed zucchini or spinach in the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrients and a pop of color.
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Spicy Kick: Throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who love a bit of heat.
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Seafood Medley: Mix in your favorite seafood—scallops or mussels work beautifully alongside or instead of shrimp!
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Herbaceous Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like tarragon or chives for a unique twist on the classic dill flavor.
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Smoky Flavor: Add a touch of smoked paprika to introduce subtle smoky undertones, enhancing the richness of the fish.
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Citrus Zest: A squeeze of lemon or lime juice just before serving adds brightness and elevates the flavors remarkably.
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Gluten-Free: Replace rye rolls with gluten-free bread or serve with a side salad to keep the meal light yet satisfying.
Let your creativity shine and make this Creamy Norwegian Fish Soup your own!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Norwegian Fish Soup
Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: To freeze, let the soup cool, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheating is easy!
Reheating: Thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of cream for richness.
Room Temperature: This soup is best enjoyed fresh; do not leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure quality and safety.
What to Serve with Creamy Norwegian Fish Soup?
As the rich aromas of this satisfying soup fill your kitchen, you’ll want some perfect pairings to complete your meal.
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Warm Rye Rolls: Their hearty texture is perfect for dipping, soaking up that creamy goodness while adding a wonderful rustic touch.
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Crispy Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup, balancing flavors beautifully. The crunch of fresh greens will awaken your palate.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor and crispy edges complement the seafood beautifully, offering a textural contrast to the creamy soup.
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Herbed Quinoa: Light, fluffy quinoa with fresh herbs adds a nutritious grain option. It adds a delightful nuttiness that harmonizes with the fish.
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Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus drizzled with a squeeze of lemon brightens the meal, enhancing the seafood flavors beautifully. The slight crunch adds an elegant touch.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of oaky Chardonnay elevates your dining experience, harmonizing with the seafood while cutting through the richness of the soup.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and adds a zesty finish to your meal, leaving everyone feeling refreshed.
These pairings create a delightful culinary experience that invites everyone to savor the moment. Enjoy your cozy meal!
Creamy Norwegian Fish Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of fish should I use for the best flavor?
I recommend using a combination of fresh salmon and cod, as both provide different textures and flavors that complement each other beautifully. You can also incorporate other white fish like halibut if you prefer, just ensure they are fresh to maximize the soup’s flavor.
How can I tell if my seafood is fresh?
Look for seafood with clear, bright eyes, a fresh ocean smell, and firm flesh that springs back when touched. If purchasing shrimp, ensure they are pink and translucent, not gray or with dark spots. Fresh ingredients elevate your Creamy Norwegian Fish Soup!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to help maintain its freshness and flavor. If you’re planning to save it longer, freezing is a great option!
Can I freeze Creamy Norwegian Fish Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the soup cool down and then transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top as it will expand when frozen. It can safely be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight.
What should I do if the soup is too thick?
If you find your soup has thickened more than you’d like, simply add a little bit of fish stock or water while reheating. Stir it in gradually until you reach your desired consistency. This way, you can keep the soup creamy while enjoying the perfect texture.
Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Yes! If you or someone you’re serving has allergies or dietary restrictions, you can use non-dairy cream alternatives to keep it dairy-free. Additionally, feel free to mix in other seafood such as scallops or crab and replace shrimp if seafood allergies exist!
Creamy Norwegian Fish Soup: A Cozy Seafood Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt butter in a large stock pot over medium heat. Stir in the cleaned leeks and season generously with salt. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the leeks begin to soften, then add ½ teaspoon of allspice if desired, stirring to toast the spices.
- Mix in the quartered potatoes, sliced carrots, and parsnips along with the fish stock. Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover it. Cook for 7-9 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Reduce heat to low and carefully pour in the heavy cream, then add chunks of salmon, cod, and shrimp. Season with more salt, pepper, and fresh dill.
- Stir the soup gently over low heat until the shrimp and fish are cooked through, about 4-5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust flavors as necessary. Serve hot with freshly made rye rolls topped with butter.
