Shallots belong to this broad family of alliums, which includes onions, garlic, and leeks.
A banana shallot is a type of shallot, but it is longer and more elongated than the regular, round-shaped shallots. It gets its name from its banana-like shape. Banana shallots have a smooth, papery skin that is usually coppery-brown on the outside. Inside, they are milder and sweeter compared to regular shallots. Their size makes them easier to peel and chop, which can save time in the kitchen. Because of their larger size, fewer banana shallots are needed in a recipe, making them a convenient option for cooking.
In terms of flavor, banana shallots are somewhere between an onion and a garlic clove. They offer a balanced taste with a hint of sweetness and a touch of sharpness, which works well in salads, sauces, and roasted dishes.
Difference Between Shallots and Banana Shallots
Size and Shape
One of the most noticeable differences between banana shallots and regular shallots is their size and shape. Banana shallots are larger and elongated, resembling the shape of a banana, while regular shallots are smaller and rounder, similar to onions or garlic.
This difference in size also affects how they are prepared. A banana shallot can be peeled and chopped more quickly because of its larger size, whereas smaller shallots might require peeling multiple bulbs for a recipe.
Flavor
When comparing flavor, banana shallots are milder and sweeter, making them suitable for dishes where a delicate onion-like taste is preferred. Regular shallots, on the other hand, have a sharper, more pronounced flavor, which makes them a good choice for recipes that need a more intense, savory element. Both add depth to dishes but in slightly different ways.
