Balsamic Glazed Shallots
Balsamic Glazed Shallots are a savory-sweet side dish where whole or halved shallots are slowly cooked until tender, then finished with a reduction of balsamic vinegar, often with a touch of sugar or honey. This simple preparation transforms the mild, sweet allium into a rich, caramelized accompaniment. The dish is a classic of Italian-inspired and modern home cooking.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is primarily a source of carbohydrates from the natural sugars in the shallots and the balsamic reduction, with negligible fat and protein. A typical serving provides key nutrients like vitamin C, antioxidants, and small amounts of minerals like potassium, with a rough calorie estimate of 80-120 calories per serving.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 85 kcal |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
| Carbs | 16 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 2.5 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
| Potassium | 200 mg |
| Vitamin C | 5 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg |
| Folate | 15 mcg |
| Manganese | 0.2 mg |
| Iron | 0.5 mg |
| Calcium | 30 mg |
| Magnesium | 10 mg |
Per 1/2 cup (120 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, it showcases the Italian principle of elevating simple, humble ingredients through technique and quality condiments like aged balsamic vinegar. Nutritionally, the slow-cooking process can make certain plant compounds in the shallots more bioavailable, while the vinegar may help moderate the glycemic impact of the natural sugars.
