Shallot, known also as Allium ascalonicum, is a plant that belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family, characterized by pinkish-purple scales that cover aromatic cloves. Shallots comes from the Middle East and their taste is sweeter and decidedly milder than ordinary onions. In Europe it is now grown mainly in France and Italy. Marinated, stewed in wine or fried shallots can be an exquisite addition to meat and fish dishes. It is ideally suited to salads, marinades and sauces.
