Shallot are a type of bulb and stem vegetable and are members of the onion family. They taste similar to onion but have a sweeter, milder flavor. Unlike onions, they are not a single bulb. They share the same clustering of cloves like garlic. Shallots are a often used to add a milder onion flavor to dishes. They can be finely chopped and sautéed with garlic and butter or oil for use in a variety of sauces, soups, or marinades for meats.

• Spice Girl: The Lady of Shallot by Lorette C. Luzajic