What is a "shallot"?

Shallot is a bulbous vegetable with a brown or purple papery skin and a mild, sweet flavor. It belongs to the onion family but has a more delicate taste compared to regular onions. Shallots are commonly used in cooking to add depth and flavor to dishes. They can be chopped, minced, or sliced and sautéed to bring out their natural sweetness. Shallots are versatile and are often used in sauces, dressings, marinades, and as a flavoring agent in various dishes.