Caramelized Shallots

Earthy, flavorful caramelized shallots make a wonderful side dish to meat. They are incredibly delicious and quite easy to make.

These caramelized shallots are wonderful. They are earthy, very flavorful, and surprisingly sweet, yet savory.

The flavor profile of caramelized shallots is so complex, so interesting. It’s always amazing to me how cooking changes onions, and this is true for shallots too, of course. Any hint of sharpness is gone, and instead, you get this wonderful, creamy sweetness. It’s like magic!

What’s the difference between shallots and onions?

Shallots are a member of the allium family, just like onions and garlic. But they are noticeably milder than onions, and their flavor is richer and sweeter. I actually like them better than I like onions.

How to make caramelized shallots

Caramelized shallots are very easy to make! I lightly adapted this recipe from Ina Garten’s recipe. It’s simple, really. Fresh shallots are roasted in butter and balsamic vinegar to create a unique, intense flavor experience. Roasting really brings out the natural sweetness of the shallots. Scroll down to the recipe card for the detailed instructions.

How to serve caramelized shallots

These caramelized shallots make a wonderful side dish to any meat. I often serve them as a side to beef tenderloin roast. They are also good with baked pork chops and with grilled chicken tenders.

Is this a healthy recipe?

I think it’s very healthy. The two main ingredients in this caramelized shallots recipe are shallots and butter. Shallots are packed with antioxidants. And butter, for most healthy people, is harmless.

What about leftovers?

Leftovers keep well in the fridge, in an airtight container, for 3-4 days. Gently reheat them in the microwave on 50% power prior to serving. I sometimes chop them up and mix them into an omelet the next day for my breakfast, with a bit of shredded gruyere cheese. Yum! 

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4.87 from 23 votes

Caramelized Shallots

Earthy, flavorful caramelized shallots make a wonderful side dish to meat. They are incredibly delicious, and quite easy to make.

Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time40 mins

Total Time50 mins

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: French

Keyword: shallots

Servings: 3 servings

Calories: 213kcal

Author: Vered DeLeeuw

INGREDIENTS

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 lb. fresh whole shallots, peeled (6 medium shallots)
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons parsley, finely chopped

INSTRUCTIONS

• Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
• In a large oven-proof skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallots. Cook, stirring occasionally, until shallots are browned, about 10 minutes.
• Remove from heat. Add the vinegar, salt, and pepper and toss to coat.
• Transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake 20-30 minutes, until shallots are fork-tender. Divide between plates, spoon the sauce on top, and sprinkle with parsley.

NUTRITION INFO Nutrition info is approximate. It is calculated using the SparkPeople.com recipe calculator, and the carb count excludes sugar alcohols. Please read the disclaimers in our Terms of Use carefully before using any of our recipes. Recommended and linked products are not guaranteed to be gluten-free. Please verify they are before using.

Nutrition Facts

Caramelized Shallots

Amount Per Serving (2 shallots)

Calories 213 Calories from Fat 99

% Daily Value*

Total Fat 11g 17%

Sodium 209mg 9%

Total Carbohydrates 26g 9%

Protein 4g 8%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

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