French food writer Robert J. Courtine famously quipped that "The onion is the truffle of the poor." Although, foodies associate shallots, not onions, more closely with French culinary style.

They’re a staple in most savoury dishes, from stir-fries to stews. Shallots, on the other hand, are milder and sweeter, with a hint of garlic flavour. They’re often used in raw preparations ...