Finnish Lohikeitto-Inspired Grilled Salmon

Introduction

Enjoy the smoky, creamy flavors of Finland with this Lohikeitto-inspired grilled salmon. Using the Arteflame grill, we sear the salmon at 1,000°F to lock in flavor before finishing it on the flat cooktop with a rich, leek-infused cream sauce. This method creates a stunning dish that's juicy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 leeks, thinly sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for lighting grill)
• 3 paper napkins (for lighting grill)
• Firewood

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the napkins and wait approximately 20 minutes for the grill to heat up.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

1. Place the salmon fillets on the center grill grate, searing each side for about 2 minutes to lock in juices.
2. Once nicely seared, move the fillets onto the flat cooktop griddle.

Step 3: Cook the Leek Cream Sauce

1. Melt 2 tbsp of butter on the flat cooktop griddle.
2. Add the sliced leeks and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until well combined.
4. Let the sauce simmer and thicken slightly.

Step 4: Finish Cooking the Salmon

1. Move the seared salmon fillets near the sauce.
2. Continue cooking on the flat cooktop until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 130°F (removing it at 115°F as it will continue to cook off the grill).

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the salmon fillets and spoon the creamy leek sauce over them.
2. Garnish with fresh dill and serve with lemon wedges.

Tips

• Use the hotter zones of the cooktop to sear quickly, then move to cooler areas for slow cooking.
• Let the salmon rest for 5 minutes before serving to redistribute juices.
• Don’t boil the cream; just let it gently thicken with the leeks.

Variations

1. Garlic Butter Salmon: Add minced garlic to the butter for extra richness.
2. Spicy Cajun Salmon: Sprinkle Cajun seasoning on the fillets before grilling.
3. Lemon-Herb Salmon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice and add rosemary while cooking.
4. Smoky Paprika Salmon: Use smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor.
5. Mushroom Cream Sauce: Replace leeks with mushrooms for an earthy twist.

Conclusion

This Finnish Lohikeitto-inspired grilled salmon balances rich, creamy flavors with the incredible sear that only an Arteflame grill can achieve. Using the unique heat zones, we ensure a perfectly grilled fish with a luscious sauce, making for an unforgettable dish.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus with butter
• Sautéed baby potatoes
• Chilled cucumber salad
• Crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
• Fresh rye bread