Shallot facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Shallot
A whole shallot
Species	Allium cepa var. aggregatum
Cultivar group	Aggregatum Group

Shallots are a special kind of onion. They belong to the same plant family as regular onions, called Allium cepa. For a long time, people thought shallots were a different plant, but now we know they are just a unique type of onion.

How Shallots Grow

Shallots usually do not grow from seeds. Instead, they grow from dividing their special bulbs. These bulbs are made up of several smaller parts, like tiny onions, joined together at the bottom.

You plant these small parts just like you would plant small onions. Each planted part grows into a new cluster of shallots. When they are ready, shallots are picked, dried, and stored like regular onions. If stored well, they can last from one year to the next.

Shallot Flavor and Uses

The flavor of shallots is a little milder than regular onions. People often use them to add taste to curries and other dishes. Both the leaves and the small cloves (parts of the bulb) can be used. The leaves are also eaten as green vegetables.

In some parts of India, shallots are seen as non-vegetarian food, similar to onions and garlic. Most shallots are grown to be sold fresh and green. However, some dry bulbs are also used. Shallots are also popular for pickling.

Shallots in Cooking

Shallots are used in many different cuisines around the world.

• They add a delicate flavor to sauces and dressings.
• In Indonesia, sliced and deep-fried shallots, called Bawang goreng, are a popular crispy topping for many dishes.
• They are also used in making satay sauces.

Images for kids

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  Shallots are called "small onions" in South India, and are used extensively in cooking there.

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  Shallot plant (A. cepa var. aggregatum) growing in Castelltallat, Spain

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  Whole shallot plants consist of roots, bulbs, leaves, stalks, and flowers.

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  Shallot seeds

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  Shallots for sale in India

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  A person chopping shallots for making satay

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  Sliced shallots for bawang goreng in Indonesia

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  Bawang goreng, consisting of crispy deep-fried shallots, is a popular garnish in Indonesia.

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  Pickled shallots

See also

In Spanish: Chalota para niños