The question poses a challenging quandary: what sets apart shallots from 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. 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. But hey, who said understanding onions had to be easy? It's all part of the fun confusion down under!
There are over 700 different varieties of alliums which include other vegetables like garlic, leeks, and chives.
What are shallots?
Shallots are the most common within Australia and are usually sold in bunches of thin strands. Shallots are a great kick of flavour to Asian fusion dishes and crunch to fresh salads.
You can use the whole plant (minus the roots!).
What are spring onions?
A spring onion, on the other hand, has a small golf ball-sized bulb with long green leaves.
Spring onions are sweeter than scallions which makes them perfect for roasting.
