Ingredient Tips: Shallots

Shallot bulbs are used extensively in Thai food for their spiciness and unique fragrance. Sometimes they’re thinly sliced, as can be found in Northeastern laab or as fillings in Thai-style omelettes. Sometimes they’re used as a whole, as found in tom yum soup. The secret to bring out shallots’ fragrance in a soup is to lightly bash them before adding to the soup.

source: http://www.thailandhorizon.com/