Crispy Shallots

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy shallots are incredibly versatile and make a perfect garnish for so many dishes. The process of frying shallots brings out their natural sweetness while giving them a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re using them as a topping for soups, salads, casseroles, or even as a snack on their own, these crispy shallots add an irresistible layer of flavor and texture. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be stored for later use, making them a great make-ahead addition to your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 4-5 medium shallots, thinly sliced

• 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with regular milk)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

• 1-2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Soak the shallots: Place the thinly sliced shallots in a bowl and cover them with buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This helps them become tender and enhances the crispiness when fried.

2. Prepare the flour mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.

3. Coat the shallots: After the shallots have soaked in the buttermilk, remove them from the bowl and shake off any excess liquid. Dredge the soaked shallots in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well coated.

4. Heat the oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan by about 1/4 inch.

5. Fry the shallots: Once the oil is hot, add the coated shallots to the pan in a single layer. Fry in batches, if necessary, to avoid overcrowding. Cook the shallots for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

6. Drain and season: Using a slotted spoon, remove the shallots from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. While they are still hot, season with a pinch of salt if desired.

7. Serve: Let the crispy shallots cool slightly before using them as a topping for salads, soups, pastas, or any dish you want to add extra crunch to. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 1-2 cups of crispy shallots

• Prep time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes soaking time)

• Cook time: 5-7 minutes

• Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy crispy shallots: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.

• Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free flour to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

• Herb-infused: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the flour mixture for an herbal flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover crispy shallots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To re-crisp, heat them in a single layer on a baking sheet in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make crispy shallots ahead of time?

Yes! You can make them ahead and store them in an airtight container. They stay crispy for a few days, making them a great make-ahead topping.

Can I bake the shallots instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them for a lighter version. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), spread the shallots on a baking sheet in a single layer, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I use regular onions instead of shallots?

While shallots have a milder, sweeter flavor, you can use onions as a substitute. Keep in mind that they may be slightly less delicate in flavor and texture.

Can I use a deep fryer instead of a skillet?

Yes, a deep fryer works great for frying crispy shallots. Just be sure to set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding.

How do I prevent the shallots from becoming soggy?

Make sure the shallots are well-drained after soaking and that they are evenly coated in the flour mixture. Fry in small batches to prevent them from steaming in the oil.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can reduce the oil by using an air fryer or by baking the shallots instead of frying them.

Can I freeze crispy shallots?

While crispy shallots are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to a month. To reheat, bake them in the oven until crisp again.

Conclusion

Crispy shallots are a simple yet impactful addition to many dishes, providing a delightful crunch and savory flavor. Whether you’re sprinkling them on soups, salads, or using them as a garnish for your favorite dishes, they’ll take your meal to the next level. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, crispy shallots are a must-try for any food lover looking to add a little extra texture and taste to their cooking. Enjoy!