Shallots

Shallots are a type of onion with a mild, sweet flavor and a subtle hint of garlic. They are prized for their delicate taste and are often used in fine cooking.

Notes

Shallots have a papery skin and are typically smaller than onions. They are available year-round but are at their best in the spring and summer months.

Uses

Soups and stews for a subtle flavor
Salads for a mild onion taste
Sauces and gravies to enhance depth of flavor
Pickling for a tangy crunch
Sautéing as a base for many dishes

Replacements

Red onions for a stronger flavor
Leeks for a milder alternative
Green onions for a fresh taste
Garlic for a more pungent flavor
Chives for a delicate onion essence

Mustard Seeds

Mustard seeds are small, round seeds with a sharp, pungent flavor that mellows when cooked. They are a staple in many cuisines, particularly Indian, French, and American.

Dill Pickle Spears

Dill pickle spears are slender, crunchy slices cut from cucumbers that have been preserved in a brine infused with dill, garlic, and spices. Originating from European pickling traditions, they are now a staple in American cuisine, particularly popular at ballparks and barbecues. These spears possess a tangy, slightly sour flavor with subtle hints of dill and garlic, offering a refreshing contrast to rich or fatty foods. Their texture is firm and crisp, providing a satisfying crunch that holds up well in various dishes. In cooking, dill pickle spears can add brightness and acidity, balancing out creamy or savory elements in recipes, and they maintain their structure even when briefly heated or incorporated into salads and relishes.

Recipes to try

Sweet and Sour Pork with Pineapple and Peppers

Tangy, sweet, and a touch sour, this pork dish is a carnival of flavors with juicy pineapple chunks and crisp bell peppers.

Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Croissant Pockets

Buttery croissants envelop a warm, savory trio of sausage, fluffy scrambled eggs, and melty cheese for a breakfast pocket that's pure bliss.