Finnish Salmon and Dill Dumplings
Lohinyytit tillikastikkeella
Delicate dumplings filled with flaked salmon and fresh dill, served in a light, creamy dill sauce. This dish showcases the Finnish love for fresh fish and aromatic herbs, offering a lighter yet satisfying meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 400 g Salmon fillet(skinless and boneless)
- 200 g All-purpose flour(for the dumpling dough)
- 1 Egg(for the dumpling dough)
- 50-75 ml Water(as needed for dough)
- 1 tsp Salt(divided)
- 1/2 cup Fresh dill(finely chopped, divided)
- 2 tbsp Butter(for the sauce)
- 2 tbsp All-purpose flour(for the sauce)
- 300 ml Milk(for the sauce)
- 100 ml Heavy cream(for the sauce)
- 1 tsp Lemon juice
- pinch White pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
For the dumpling dough: Combine 200g flour and 1/2 tsp salt in a bowl. Make a well in the center and add the egg and about 50ml water. Mix to form a stiff dough, adding more water if necessary. Knead until smooth, then cover and let rest for 15 minutes.
- 2
Cook the salmon fillet in lightly salted boiling water for about 5-7 minutes, until just cooked through. Drain, let cool slightly, then flake into small pieces. Discard any skin or bones.
- 3
In a bowl, combine the flaked salmon with half of the chopped dill and 1/4 tsp salt. Mix gently.
- 4
Roll out the dumpling dough thinly on a floured surface. Cut into small squares (about 5x5 cm).
- 5
Place a small spoonful of the salmon mixture in the center of each dough square. Fold the dough over to create a triangle or pouch, pressing the edges firmly to seal. You can also bring the corners together to form a small parcel.
- 6
Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Carefully add the dumplings and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are cooked through. Drain and set aside.
- 7
For the dill sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tbsp flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
- 8
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a simmer, stirring, until the sauce thickens. Stir in the heavy cream.
- 9
Remove from heat. Stir in the remaining chopped dill, lemon juice, 1/4 tsp salt, and a pinch of white pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- 10
Gently add the cooked dumplings to the dill sauce and warm through for a minute or two. Serve immediately.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the salmon is cooked just through before flaking, to prevent it from becoming dry.
- ✓Don't overfill the dumplings, or they will be difficult to seal.
- ✓The dumpling dough should be firm but pliable. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour; if too dry, add a tiny bit more water.
- ✓Serve with a side of boiled new potatoes and a sprinkle of fresh dill.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add finely chopped leeks or chives to the salmon filling.
- Use a different type of white fish like cod or perch.
- For a richer sauce, use only heavy cream instead of milk.