Yes, shallots are generally considered milder than onions.
Shallots and onions belong to the same family, Allium, and are often used interchangeably in cooking. However, there are key differences in their flavor profiles. Onions, particularly raw onions, can have a pungent and sharp taste. Shallots, on the other hand, offer a more delicate, sweeter, and subtler flavor. This mildness makes shallots a preferred choice in dishes where a strong onion flavor would be overpowering, such as in salads, vinaigrettes, and delicate sauces.
While both onions and shallots become sweeter when cooked, the initial difference in intensity is still noticeable. Shallots tend to retain their sweetness and develop a savory depth when sautéed, while onions can become quite caramelized and bolder in flavor.
Therefore, while substitutions are possible, using shallots will generally result in a dish with a less intense onion-like flavor compared to using regular onions.
