Shallots

Shallots are mild-flavoured members of the onion family. They are small, about the size of pickling onions, with copper-red skins. They have a distinctive onion taste without being as strong or overpowering as ordinary onions. Readily available, they make an excellent substitute for fresh Chinese shallots, which are difficult to find, even in Chinese markets. They are expensive, but their sweet flavour permeates food; a few go a long way. Keep them in a cool, dry place (not the refrigerator) and peel, slice, or chop them as you would an onion. In China, shallots are also sold pickled as a snack to go with preserved eggs.