Shallots vs Onions: What’s the Difference? Complete UK Guide

Shallots vs onions – what’s actually the difference, and does it matter which one you grow or use in your cooking?

It’s a question that many gardeners and home cooks ask, particularly when they see shallots and onions sitting next to each other in the supermarket or garden centre.

At first glance, shallots can look like small onions.

They have similar papery skins, grow from bulbs and belong to the same plant family.

But look a little closer, and there are some fascinating differences.

Shallots are often smaller, sweeter and more delicate in flavour, while ordinary onions usually produce larger bulbs with a more pronounced onion taste.

And when it comes to growing them, traditional shallots have a particularly interesting characteristic.

One planted shallot set can multiply into a cluster of several new bulbs, while an ordinary bulb onion usually produces one main bulb per plant.

This makes shallots a brilliant vegetable for gardeners who enjoy watching their crops multiply.

Here at Gardening with Ben, I love growing onions, garlic and shallots on the allotment.

They’re among my favourite crops to plant during autumn because I can start preparing for the following year’s harvest while many summer vegetables are finishing.

And although onions and shallots are closely related, I think both deserve a place in a productive vegetable garden.

Onions are incredibly versatile for everyday cooking.

Shallots are fantastic for sauces, roasting and dishes where you want a slightly more delicate flavour.

But which should you grow?

Are shallots easier than onions?

Can you substitute one for the other?

Do shallots need different soil or planting conditions?

And are banana shallots the same as ordinary shallots?

In this complete UK guide, I’ll explain all the important differences between shallots and onions, including their appearance, flavour, growing habits, planting times, harvesting and cooking uses.

Whether you’re choosing your next allotment crop or simply wondering what to use in tonight’s dinner, this guide will help.

What Are Shallots?

Shallots are edible bulbs belonging to the allium family.

Traditional multiplying shallots are classified within Allium cepa Aggregatum Group.

This makes them very closely related to ordinary onions.

However, they’re often smaller and have a different growing habit.

When gardeners plant traditional shallot sets, each set can multiply into several bulbs.

These develop in a cluster around the original planting position.

What Do Shallots Look Like?

Shallots vary considerably depending on the variety.

They can be:

• Small and rounded.
• Oval or teardrop-shaped.
• Long and narrow.
• Copper-coloured.
• Golden-brown.
• Reddish-purple.
• Grey-skinned in some varieties.

Inside, many shallots have pale flesh with pinkish or purple tones.

Are Shallots Just Small Onions?

Not exactly.

Although they’re closely related, traditional shallots differ in their bulb-forming habit, typical size and flavour.

However, botanical and commercial classifications can overlap, particularly with elongated banana or echalion shallots.

So it’s more accurate to describe shallots as a closely related type of onion rather than an entirely unrelated vegetable.

Do All Shallots Grow in Clusters?

No.

Traditional shallots grown from multiplying sets usually develop clusters.

But some modern shallot varieties are grown from seed and form one bulb per plant.

This distinction is important when choosing planting material.

What Are Onions?

Ordinary bulb onions belong to the species Allium cepa.

They’re one of the most widely grown vegetables in British gardens and allotments.

Unlike traditional multiplying shallots, most ordinary bulb onions produce one main bulb per plant.

What Do Onions Look Like?

Onions come in many varieties.

Common types include:

• Yellow or brown onions.
• Red onions.
• White onions.
• Sweet onions.
• Large exhibition onions.
• Smaller pickling onions.

They can be round, flattened or occasionally elongated.

Do Onions Always Grow Bigger Than Shallots?

Not always.

Some shallot varieties are relatively large, while some onion varieties are deliberately grown small.

However, ordinary cooking onions are generally larger than traditional shallots.

Are Red Onions the Same as Shallots?

No.

Red onions are ordinary bulb onions with red or purple colouring.

Shallots can also have reddish skins, but they’re not automatically red onions.

The growing habit and variety matter more than colour alone.

Shallots vs Onions: The Main Differences

There are several features that make it easier to understand which crop you’re growing or buying.

Difference 1: Size

Shallots are generally smaller than ordinary onions.

However, elongated banana shallots can be surprisingly large.

Difference 2: Shape

Traditional shallots are often oval, teardrop-shaped or slightly elongated.

Ordinary onions are frequently round or flattened.

Difference 3: Flavour

Shallots are commonly described as milder, sweeter and more delicate.

Onions can have a stronger, sharper taste, particularly when raw.

However, flavour varies considerably by variety.

Difference 4: Bulb Formation

Traditional shallot sets can multiply into clusters.

Ordinary onions generally form one main bulb per plant.

Difference 5: Cooking Uses

Shallots are especially popular in sauces and delicate dishes.

Onions are ideal for everyday cooking, including soups, stews, curries and casseroles.

Difference 6: Growing Methods

Both can be grown from sets or seed, but traditional multiplying shallots are especially well suited to growing from sets.

Difference 7: Storage

Both crops can be stored for months when properly cured.

Storage life depends on the variety and growing conditions.

Do Shallots Taste Different from Onions?

Yes, although there is some overlap.

If you’ve ever chopped a raw onion, you’ll know that some varieties can have a strong, sharp taste.

Shallots are often more delicate.

They can provide an onion flavour without being quite as overpowering.

What Do Raw Shallots Taste Like?

Raw shallots often taste:

• Delicately onion-like.
• Slightly sweet.
• Aromatic.
• Mildly pungent.
• Sometimes faintly garlicky.

They’re particularly useful when finely chopped into salad dressings.

What Do Raw Onions Taste Like?

This depends on the variety.

Yellow onions can be fairly sharp when raw.

Red onions may be sweet or pungent depending on the cultivar.

Sweet onion varieties have a milder flavour.

What Happens When You Cook Shallots?

Cooking softens their sharpness and brings out their sweetness.

Finely chopped shallots can almost melt into sauces when gently cooked.

What Happens When You Cook Onions?

Onions also become sweeter when cooked.

They can provide more bulk and texture, particularly in soups, stews and roasted vegetable dishes.

Which Tastes Better?

That’s entirely down to the dish and your personal preference.

For a rich onion soup, I’d generally choose ordinary onions.

For a delicate sauce, shallots can be fantastic.

Shallots vs Onions: Which Is Better for Cooking?

Both deserve a place in the kitchen.

The best choice depends on what you’re making.

Shallots Are Excellent for Sauces

Finely chopped shallots work beautifully in:

• Creamy sauces.
• Wine-based sauces.
• Butter sauces.
• Salad dressings.
• Pan sauces.
• Gravies.

Their smaller size and fine texture make them easy to incorporate into recipes.

Onions Are Excellent for Everyday Meals

Ordinary onions are particularly useful in:

• Soups.
• Stews.
• Curries.
• Chilli.
• Cottage pie.
• Casseroles.
• Roasted vegetables.
• Homemade burgers.

Which Is Better for Roasting?

Both are delicious.

Whole or halved shallots can become beautifully sweet when roasted.

Large onions provide more substantial pieces.

Which Is Better for Salads?

Finely chopped shallots are an excellent option when you want a gentler onion flavour.

Red onions can also be delicious, particularly when sliced thinly.

Which Is Better for Stir-Fries?

Both work.

Shallots are useful for delicate, aromatic dishes.

Onions provide more bulk and can retain a firmer texture.

Can You Substitute Shallots for Onions?

Yes.

Shallots and onions can often be substituted for one another.

However, remember that their sizes and flavours differ.

Can You Use Shallots Instead of Onions?

Yes.

If a recipe requires a small amount of onion, finely chopped shallot can be an excellent replacement.

Can You Use Onions Instead of Shallots?

Yes.

Choose a relatively mild onion if you’re trying to reproduce the delicate flavour of shallots.

How Many Shallots Equal One Onion?

There isn’t a universal answer because bulb sizes vary considerably.

A useful starting point is approximately two to three medium shallots for one small or medium cooking onion, but the most accurate method is to compare the required chopped quantity.

What If the Recipe Calls for One Shallot?

Use a modest quantity of finely chopped onion, adjusting for the size of the shallot and the dish.

Will It Taste Exactly the Same?

Not necessarily.

The finished dish may be slightly sharper or sweeter.

For ordinary family cooking, this is usually manageable.

Are Banana Shallots Different from Ordinary Shallots?

Yes, in appearance and often in the way they’re marketed.

Banana shallots are elongated alliums that resemble narrow, stretched onions.

They’re frequently sold in supermarkets.

What Are Echalion Shallots?

Echalion is a term used for elongated banana-style shallots.

These are often larger than traditional round shallots.

Are Banana Shallots Actually Onions?

Botanically, some banana or echalion types have characteristics associated with the wider Allium cepa group.

Names and classifications can vary between varieties and suppliers.

For gardeners, the most useful thing is checking whether the variety is grown from seed or multiplying sets and what sort of bulb it produces.

What Do Banana Shallots Taste Like?

They typically have a mild, aromatic onion flavour.

Their larger size makes them useful when a recipe requires more chopped shallot.

Can You Grow Banana Shallots in the UK?

Yes.

Suitable varieties can be grown successfully in British gardens.

Follow the planting instructions for the particular variety.

Shallots vs Onions: Which Is Easier to Grow?

Both are relatively straightforward crops.

If you’re new to allotment gardening, either is a good starting point.

Growing Shallots

Traditional shallots are commonly planted as sets.

Each set can produce a cluster of bulbs.

Growing Onions

Onions are also commonly grown from sets.

Most plants produce one main bulb.

Which Requires More Space?

It depends on how many plants you’re growing.

Traditional shallots need adequate spacing to form clusters.

Onions also need enough room for individual bulbs to develop.

Which Needs More Water?

Both require moisture during active growth and good drainage.

Neither benefits from prolonged waterlogging.

Which Is More Likely to Bolt?

Both crops can bolt under stressful conditions.

The risk depends on variety, planting time, temperature and growing method.

My Recommendation for Beginners

Start with a small number of shallot sets and some ordinary onion sets.

Growing them alongside each other is an excellent way to discover how their growth habits differ.

Shallots vs Onions: Planting Times in the UK

Both crops can be planted during autumn or spring, provided you choose suitable varieties.

When to Plant Shallots

Many spring shallot sets are planted from late winter into spring.

Suitable autumn varieties can be planted during autumn or winter.

When to Plant Onions

Spring onion sets are commonly planted during spring.

Overwintering onion sets are generally planted during early autumn.

Can You Plant Both in October?

Yes, if you’ve chosen varieties specifically suitable for autumn planting.

Can You Plant Both in March?

Yes.

Spring shallot sets and ordinary spring onion sets can often be planted during March when soil conditions allow.

Can You Plant Both in November?

Suitable shallot varieties may be planted in November.

However, many overwintering onion sets should be planted earlier in autumn.

Always follow the supplier’s instructions rather than assuming the crops have identical planting windows.

How to Grow Shallots from Sets

If you’re interested in growing shallots rather than simply buying them from a supermarket, sets are an excellent starting point.

Step 1: Buy Healthy Shallot Sets

Choose firm sets from a reputable supplier.

Avoid anything soft or mouldy.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil

Choose a sunny position with fertile, well-drained soil.

Step 3: Remove Weeds

Clear persistent weeds before planting.

Step 4: Mark Your Rows

Leave approximately 25–30 cm between rows.

Step 5: Space the Sets

Allow around 15–20 cm between traditional shallot sets.

Step 6: Plant Pointed End Upwards

Position the pointed end upwards and the root-producing base downwards.

Step 7: Leave the Tip Showing

Plant shallowly so the pointed tip is just visible at the soil surface.

Step 8: Firm the Soil

Gently firm around the set.

Step 9: Water if Necessary

Water when soil conditions require it, avoiding prolonged saturation.

Step 10: Label the Variety

Keep a record of what you’ve planted.

Traditional multiplying varieties can develop several bulbs around the original planting position.

How to Grow Onions from Sets

Growing onions follows a similar process.

Step 1: Choose the Right Sets

Select varieties suitable for autumn or spring planting.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil

Choose full sun and good drainage.

Step 3: Remove Weeds

Clear the planting area.

Step 4: Mark Rows

Allow approximately 25–30 cm between rows.

Step 5: Position the Sets

Leave approximately 10–15 cm between sets.

Step 6: Plant Pointed End Upwards

Place the root-producing base downwards.

Step 7: Plant Shallowly

Leave the pointed tips just visible.

Step 8: Firm and Water

Gently firm the soil and water if needed.

Step 9: Protect Against Birds

Birds sometimes pull newly planted onion sets out of the ground.

Step 10: Watch for New Growth

The sets should begin producing green leaves as conditions improve.

Unlike traditional shallots, most ordinary onion sets develop one main bulb.

Shallots vs Onions: Planting Depth and Spacing

Although the crops are similar, spacing can differ slightly.

Growing requirement	Shallots from sets	Onions from sets
Planting depth	Tip just visible	Tip just visible
Distance between sets	15–20 cm	10–15 cm
Distance between rows	25–30 cm	25–30 cm
Position	Full sun	Full sun
Soil	Fertile, free-draining	Fertile, free-draining
Mulching	Optional, avoid covering emerging tips	Optional, avoid covering emerging tips

The wider shallot spacing allows traditional varieties room to multiply.

Can You Grow Shallots and Onions Together?

Yes.

Shallots and onions can share the same raised bed or vegetable growing area.

They have broadly similar requirements for light, soil and moisture.

Should You Plant Them in the Same Row?

You could, but I’d recommend separate, labelled rows.

This makes crop identification easier.

Will They Affect Each Other’s Growth?

They mainly compete for the same basic resources if overcrowded.

With enough space, they can grow alongside one another.

Do They Protect Each Other from Pests?

Don’t rely on that.

Shallots and onions share many important allium pests and diseases.

What About Crop Rotation?

Treat them as members of the same rotation group.

Planting shallots after onions isn’t a meaningful break from growing alliums in the same soil.

Shallots vs Onions: Common Pests and Diseases

Because these crops are closely related, they share several potential problems.

Onion White Rot

Onion white rot affects many alliums, including shallots, onions and garlic.

It can cause yellowing leaves, wilting and root or bulb decay.

The fungus can survive in soil for many years.

Allium Leaf Miner

This pest attacks several allium crops.

Affected plants may show pale feeding marks, twisted leaves and damage within plant tissues.

Onion Fly

Onion fly larvae can damage roots and bulbs.

Downy Mildew

Damp growing conditions can favour downy mildew.

Rust

Allium rust can cause orange-brown pustules on leaves.

How Can You Reduce Problems?

Choose healthy sets.

Avoid waterlogged soil.

Use suitable spacing.

Keep weeds controlled.

Avoid transferring potentially contaminated soil.

Use insect-proof mesh where appropriate.

And pay attention to crop rotation.

Shallots vs Onions: Which Produces the Bigger Harvest?

This is an interesting comparison because the crops produce bulbs differently.

Traditional Shallot Sets

One set can produce several bulbs.

The individual bulbs are often smaller than ordinary cooking onions.

Ordinary Onion Sets

One set usually produces one bulb.

That single bulb may be much larger.

Does That Mean Shallots Yield More?

Not automatically.

The total weight of the harvest depends on variety, spacing, growing conditions and plant health.

Which Is Better for a Small Garden?

Both are useful.

Shallots provide smaller bulbs that are convenient for cooking in modest quantities.

Onions are excellent when you want larger bulbs for soups, casseroles and everyday meals.

When Are Shallots and Onions Ready to Harvest?

Both are generally harvested during summer, although the exact timing varies.

Shallot Harvesting

Traditional shallots are commonly ready during July or August.

The foliage begins yellowing and falling over naturally.

Onion Harvesting

Depending on variety and planting date, onions are often harvested from summer into early autumn.

Overwintering onions may mature earlier.

Should You Harvest Both at the Same Time?

Only if both crops are ready.

Check their foliage and bulb maturity separately.

How Do You Lift Them?

Use a garden fork to loosen the soil.

Lift carefully to avoid bruising the bulbs.

Can You Leave Them in the Ground?

Don’t leave mature bulbs indefinitely in wet soil.

Harvest when they reach the appropriate stage.

How to Dry and Store Shallots and Onions

Both crops require suitable curing before long-term storage.

Step 1: Harvest Mature Bulbs

Lift them carefully.

Step 2: Remove Loose Soil

Brush off loose dirt without damaging the skins.

Step 3: Arrange for Drying

Spread the bulbs in a single layer somewhere dry and airy.

Step 4: Allow Thorough Curing

The leaves, necks and outer skins should become dry.

Step 5: Inspect the Harvest

Separate bulbs showing damage or decay.

Step 6: Store in Breathable Containers

Mesh bags, shallow trays and open baskets can work well.

Step 7: Keep Cool and Dry

Avoid humid, poorly ventilated storage areas.

Step 8: Check Regularly

Remove bulbs that begin deteriorating.

Which Stores for Longer?

There’s no universal winner.

Some shallot varieties store exceptionally well, while certain storage onions can also last for many months.

Choose named varieties with good keeping qualities if storage is important.

Are Shallots More Expensive Than Onions?

Shallots are often more expensive per kilogram than ordinary cooking onions in supermarkets.

There are several possible reasons, including differences in production scale, market demand, harvesting, grading and handling.

However, prices vary by retailer and season.

Does This Make Shallots Worth Growing?

Potentially.

If you use shallots regularly in cooking, growing them at home can be particularly rewarding.

Are Onions More Economical to Grow?

Ordinary onions are productive and versatile, especially for gardeners who use large quantities.

Which Would I Grow on an Allotment?

I’d make space for both.

Onions for everyday meals and shallots for recipes where their delicate flavour really stands out.

Ten Ways to Use Home-Grown Shallots and Onions

1. Shallot Salad Dressing

Finely chop a shallot and combine it with vinegar, mustard and oil.

2. Roasted Shallots

Roast whole peeled shallots until soft and sweet.

3. Caramelised Onions

Slowly cook sliced onions until deeply golden.

4. Homemade Onion Soup

Use yellow or brown onions for a rich soup.

5. Shallot Sauce

Cook finely chopped shallots gently for a smooth, aromatic sauce.

6. Onion Gravy

Use browned onions to create a delicious gravy.

7. Crispy Shallots

Thinly slice and fry shallots carefully until golden and crisp.

8. Pickled Red Onions

Thinly slice red onions and pickle using an appropriate food-safe recipe.

9. Stir-Fried Shallots

Add sliced shallots to vegetable stir-fries.

10. Roasted Onion and Shallot Mix

Combine both vegetables for an interesting mixture of sweetness and flavour.

One of the best things about growing your own vegetables is having fresh ingredients available for cooking.

Ten Common Mistakes When Growing Shallots and Onions

1. Assuming They’re the Same Crop

Their growth habits differ, particularly traditional multiplying shallots.

2. Planting the Wrong Varieties in Autumn

Choose planting stock recommended for the correct season.

3. Overcrowding the Bulbs

Allow enough space for proper development.

4. Growing in Heavy Shade

Both crops generally prefer full sun.

5. Planting in Waterlogged Soil

Wet conditions can encourage bulb decay.

6. Forgetting to Label Varieties

Different crops and varieties may mature at different times.

7. Applying Excessive Fertiliser

More feeding doesn’t automatically result in bigger bulbs.

8. Ignoring Shared Diseases

Shallots and onions can both be affected by onion white rot and other allium problems.

9. Harvesting Before They’re Mature

Bulbs may store poorly if lifted too early.

10. Storing Before Properly Drying

Insufficient curing can encourage deterioration.

Shallots vs Onions: UK Growing Calendar

Month	Shallots	Onions
January	Check overwintering sets	Check overwintering onions
February	Prepare spring sets and sow suitable seeds	Start onion seeds under cover
March	Plant spring shallot sets	Plant spring onion sets
April	Continue suitable planting and weeding	Finish planting and monitor seedlings
May	Maintain foliage and check soil moisture	Support strong leaf growth
June	Monitor bulb development	Monitor bulb development
July	Harvest mature shallots	Check overwintering onions for harvest
August	Harvest, cure and store	Harvest suitable onion varieties
September	Select autumn sets	Plant suitable overwintering onion sets
October	Plant suitable autumn shallots	Continue autumn onion-set planting
November	Plant varieties recommended for late autumn	Monitor overwintering growth
December	Check drainage	Check drainage and weather damage

These timings are approximate and vary according to variety, weather and your growing location.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shallots vs Onions

What’s the difference between shallots and onions?

Shallots are generally smaller, often sweeter and more delicate in flavour. Traditional shallot sets multiply into clusters, while ordinary onion plants normally form one main bulb.

Are shallots just small onions?

Not exactly. They’re very closely related to onions, but traditional shallots have distinctive growing characteristics.

Are shallots part of the onion family?

Yes. Shallots are members of the allium family and closely related to ordinary onions.

Do shallots taste like onions?

Yes, but they often have a sweeter, more delicate flavour.

Are shallots sweeter than onions?

Often, although sweetness and pungency depend on the variety and how they’re cooked.

Do shallots taste like garlic?

Some shallots have a subtle garlicky note, but they’re generally more onion-like in flavour.

Can you replace onions with shallots?

Yes. Adjust the amount based on bulb size and the flavour of the dish.

Can you replace shallots with onions?

Yes. A mild onion makes a useful substitute.

How many shallots equal one onion?

It varies considerably. Two or three medium shallots may replace a small or medium onion, but comparing chopped quantities is more accurate.

Are red onions the same as shallots?

No. Red onions are a type of ordinary bulb onion.

What are banana shallots?

Banana shallots are elongated, often larger shallot-type alliums.

Are echalion shallots the same as banana shallots?

The names are often used for similar elongated shallot types, although varieties and classifications can differ.

Are shallots better than onions for cooking?

Neither is universally better. Shallots are particularly useful for delicate sauces and dressings, while onions are versatile for everyday cooking.

Which is better for soup?

Ordinary onions are usually ideal when you need a substantial quantity.

Which is better for roasting?

Both roast well. Shallots can become especially sweet and tender.

Can you eat shallots raw?

Yes. Fresh, properly prepared shallots are often used raw in dressings and salads.

Can you grow shallots and onions together?

Yes, provided you allow sufficient space and manage shared allium pests and diseases.

Do shallots multiply when planted?

Traditional multiplying shallot sets commonly produce clusters of new bulbs.

Do onions multiply in the same way?

Most ordinary bulb onions produce one main bulb rather than a cluster.

Are shallots easier to grow than onions?

Both are suitable for beginners when grown from sets in appropriate conditions.

Do shallots and onions need the same soil?

Both generally prefer fertile, well-drained soil and full sun.

Can you plant shallots and onions in October?

Yes, provided you’ve chosen suitable autumn planting varieties.

Can you grow shallots and onions in raised beds?

Yes. Raised beds can be an excellent option where ordinary soil is wet or compacted.

Which crop needs more space?

Traditional shallots usually need wider spacing between sets to allow their clusters to develop.

When are shallots ready to harvest?

Many are harvested in summer, often July or August.

When are onions ready to harvest?

Harvest times depend on variety and planting date, commonly ranging from summer to early autumn.

Do shallots and onions store differently?

Both need proper curing and suitable storage. Storage life varies by variety and growing conditions.

Are shallots worth growing on an allotment?

Yes. They’re useful, productive and excellent for cooking, particularly when grown from traditional multiplying sets.

Final Thoughts: Should You Grow Shallots or Onions?

If you’re wondering whether shallots or onions are better for your allotment, my recommendation is simple.

Grow both if you’ve got the space!

Although these vegetables are closely related, they each offer something different.

Ordinary onions are fantastic for everyday cooking.

They’re versatile, productive and useful for everything from soups and stews to roasting and homemade gravy.

Shallots, meanwhile, bring a delicate sweetness and lovely flavour to sauces, dressings, stir-fries and roasted dishes.

And if you enjoy watching crops develop, there’s something particularly satisfying about growing traditional shallots from sets.

You plant one small bulb during the appropriate season and can eventually harvest a cluster containing several new bulbs.

That’s one of the reasons I think shallots are such a rewarding allotment crop.

The good news is that both vegetables have similar growing requirements.

Give them plenty of sunshine, fertile soil and good drainage.

Choose varieties suitable for autumn or spring planting.

Allow adequate spacing and keep the beds free from weeds.

And remember that they share many of the same pests and diseases, so crop rotation and healthy planting material are important.

If you’re new to growing shallots, I’d recommend starting with a few sets alongside your onions.

You’ll quickly see how the two crops develop differently, and when harvest time arrives, you’ll have both available for cooking.

So next time you see shallots and onions sitting next to each other in a garden centre or supermarket, you’ll know exactly what makes them different.

And hopefully, you’ll be inspired to grow plenty of both!

Keep smiling, keep shining, keep gardening with Ben!