Shallots are one of the more versatile ingredients you'll ever come across. They can be used as aromatics to build flavor in a sautéed dish, stock or sauce the same way garlic or onions are sauteed at the beginning of a recipe. Like other vegetables, they can even be roasted whole and served as a side dish. A much loved ingredient, shallots taste like a cross between red and yellow onions, only less punchy, and with a hint of garlic. They have a delicate, sweet flavor with just a bit of sharpness. You can substitute shallots in nearly any recipe that calls for onions—just make sure you’re using the same volume.