Shallots – All You Need to Know | Instacart Guide to Fresh Produce

What are shallots?

Shallots look like miniature, elongated onions, which makes sense because shallots are related to their well-known allium family counterparts: onions, garlic, and chives.

While the onion is known for its biting heat that can draw a tear from your eye, shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor. Not only is the flavor sweeter, but most people also describe the taste of shallot as a combination between an onion and garlic.

On its exterior, the shallot looks like a shrunken version of red onion with its coppery skin, but after peeling the outer layers, you’ll find that shallots do not contain rings like onions, but instead contain individual cloves like garlic.

With their sweeter taste and subtle hints of garlic, shallots are extremely versatile. Try caramelizing them, adding them to salads, offering support to a protein, or using them as a base for soups or sauces.

Where do shallots originate from?

The true origin of shallots is unknown. However, it is hypothesized that shallots first grew somewhere in Central Asia. From there, it is believed that shallots were transported to the Indian subcontinent, and later on, made their way to Europe.

What is the nutritional value of shallots?

Shallots provide an assortment of nutrients. Within 3.5oz of chopped shallots, there are:

• 75 calories
• 17g of carbs
• 2.5g of protein
• 0g of fat
• 3g of fiber
• 9% of the daily value (DV) of folate
• 7% of the DV of iron
• 7% of the DV of potassium
• 5% of the DV of magnesium
• 5% of the DV of phosphorous
• 4% of the DV of zinc

How are shallots grown?

Shallots are planted similarly to garlic. Because shallots are typically planted from bulbs and spread out once they start growing, they require more space than garlic or other allium relatives.

To plant them, separate each bulb and plant them in the soil with the pointed top facing upwards. For best practices, plant each bulb 4–6in apart, so the shallots have adequate room to grow.

You can plant shallots in the fall or spring. If you live in a warmer climate, it is best to plant them during the fall, and if you reside in a place with cooler temperatures, it is best to plant your shallots in the middle of October or in spring.

Under proper growing conditions, shallots are often ready for harvest within 3–6 months. While the shallots are growing, they will sprout green onion tops. You can trim these tops and use them immediately. However, remember to leave some of the stems attached to the shallots so the bulbs can continue to grow and receive proper nutrients.

When are shallots in season?

With a 3–6 month growing period, shallots are usually in season in the summer or fall. See what other fresh vegetables are currently in season near you.

What should I look for when buying shallots?

Similar to the onion, shallots can come in a variety of colors. Most often, you’ll see shallots with a copper outer shell and a white and purple interior.

When buying shallots at the grocery store, look for shallots that are firm and have some weight to them. There should not be any soft spots or discoloration.

If you are looking for a milder flavor, select smaller (or younger) shallots in size. The larger the shallot, the more potent the onion or garlic flavor the shallot will contain.

If you are looking to have your groceries conveniently delivered, you can easily shop for shallots and more via Instacart. After adding a product to your cart, use the “Instructions” option to notify your Instacart shopper about any preferences or specific directions on how to choose the best products.

How to store shallots

Like other members of the allium family, Shallots should be stored in a dry, cool, and dark location with plenty of air circulation. Storing the shallots in a hanging metal mesh basket or storing them in a paper bag that has been hole-punched for proper air ventilation can potentially allow you to store your shallots for up to 2–3 months.

How to tell if shallots are bad

When fresh, shallots should be firm and not have any soft spots. If you notice any mushy spots on the shallot or notice the shallot feels extremely light, it may signify that the shallot has started to dry out and spoil. If the shallot has started to sprout, this is also a sign of spoilage.

What can I substitute for shallots?

With shallots being a member of the allium family, other varieties in the allium genus make great substitutes for shallots. These include onions (or specifically sweet onions if you are looking for something to match the sweeter flavor of shallots), garlic, green onions, and chives. However, if you are looking for something slightly different, you can try substituting shallots for a produce item in the root vegetable family.

Start cooking with shallots

Shallots contain a milder and sweeter flavor profile in comparison to their onion cousins. They are extremely versatile and great for a variety of dishes and recipes. Try adding shallots to your next culinary adventure by picking up a bunch at your local grocery store or having your groceries conveniently delivered via Instacart.

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