It’s a tricky debate that will bring you to tears (literally!) so what is the difference between shallots and spring onions?
This is another unique Australian dilemma as when it comes to particular types of onions we’ve gone for a unique naming system – hence the confusion.
WATCH NOW: How to harvest spring onion. Article continues after video.
To put it simply in Australia, shallots are long green onions that can be bought in singular bunches, spring onions, on the other hand, are long green onions with a singular bulbous root.
All of these are what are classified as alliums.
There are over 700 different varieties of alliums but they include other vegetables like garlic, leeks, and chives.
What are shallots?
Amongst the three, shallots are the most common within Australia.
Sold in bunches of thin strands they add a great kick of flavour to Asian fusion dishes and crunch to fresh salads.
You can use the whole plant (minus the roots!).
Recipe suggestion: Vietnamese steak saladAlternative names: salad onions, green onions, scallions
What is a spring onion?
A spring onion, on the other hand, is a small golf ball-sized bulb with long green leaves.
Spring onions are sweeter than scallions which makes them perfect for roasting.
Recipe suggestion:Steak & spring onion sandwich with miso mayoAlternative names: scallions, green onion, young onion
What are eschalots?
Eschalots resemble tiny brown onions and have a relatively mild flavour. Recipe suggestion: Chestnut & eschalot Tarte Tatins with mushroom & Madeira sauceAlternative names: shallots, French shallotHow to store
To keep shallots and spring onions fresh store them roots down in a glass of water in the fridge, just like you would a bunch of flowers. Or alternatively, wrap them in a damp tea towel or Swag bag.Tip: Don’t throw out the cut roots of your spring onions, simply place them in an old jar with some water and watch them regrow!
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