Teresa's Recipes
Kielonmarjakeitto (Finnish Lingonberry Soup)
Kielonmarjakeitto is a delightful traditional Finnish berry soup that captures the essence of the Nordic wilderness. Made primarily with tart lingonberries, this refreshing soup is served cold, making it a perfect treat during warm summer days or as a unique dessert. The vibrant color and tangy flavor profile will awaken your taste buds while the creamy topping and fresh mint elevate the experience. Enjoy this dish rich in history, as it reflects the Finnish tradition of utilizing local berries for nourishment and delight.
Ingredients
- 4 cups, fresh or frozen Lingonberries
- 4 cups Water
- 1/2 cup (adjust to taste) Sugar
- 3 tablespoons Potato starch
- for garnish Fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- for serving Whipped cream
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Dessert
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8g
- Carbs: 20g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Sugar: 12g
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the lingonberries, water, and sugar over medium heat.
- Bring the mixture to a boil while gently stirring to dissolve the sugar.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the berries to soften and release their juices.
- In a small bowl, mix the potato starch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a smooth slurry.
- Slowly pour the slurry into the soup while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the soup has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the ground cinnamon for a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator.
- Chill the soup for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and to serve it cold.
- When ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls, top with a dollop of whipped cream, and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest when cooking the soup.
- You can substitute lingonberries with cranberries for a similar taste profile if lingonberries are not available.
- Serve the soup alongside traditional Finnish rye bread for a delightful contrast.