Shallots: Indonesia's Main Agricultural Commodity

Introduction to Shallots

Shallots: A Key Ingredient in the Culinary World

Shallots (Allium cepa L. var. aggregatum) are one of the main cooking ingredients that have been used for centuries. Originating from Iran, Pakistan, and the northern mountain ranges, shallots have spread worldwide, thriving in both subtropical and tropical climates.
Shallots are bulbs that can be used not only as a cooking spice but also eaten raw, made into pickles, or used in traditional medicine. Additionally, the skin of shallots has added value as it can be processed into natural dye. Shallot leaves are also often used as an ingredient in various vegetable dishes.

Binomial Name

Allium cepa var.aggreagatum

Scientific Classification

Kingdom

Plantae

Clade

Monokotil

Genus

Allium

Clade

Tracheophyta

Ordo

Asparagales

Species

A.cepa

Clade

Angiospermae

Family

Amarylidaceae

Variety

A.cepavar.aggreagatum

The Origin of Shallots

From Iran to the Rest of the World

Shallots spread from Iran to the rest of the world, including Indonesia. This plant thrives well in tropical and subtropical climates, making it one of the most important vegetable commodities in many countries. Over time, shallots have become an essential ingredient in various dishes across Asia, Europe, and America.

History

Shallots have been cultivated since ancient Egyptian times and used in natural medicine.

Use

In Indonesia, shallots are often used as a base ingredient in various traditional dishes.

Shallot Production Centers in Indonesia

CENTRAL JAVA

WEST JAVA

Nutritional of Shallots

Per (100 gram)

Protein

1,5 gr

Fat

0,3 gr

Carbohydrates

9,2 gr

Fiber

1,7 gr

Calcium

36 mg

Fosfor

40 mg

Sodium

7 mg

Copper

0,06 mg

Zinc

0,2 mg

Potassium

178,6 mg

Iron

0,8 mg

Vitamin B1

0,03 mg

Vitamin B2

0,04 mg

Vitamin B3

0,2 mg

Vitamin C

2 mg

Key Health Benefits

Maintaining Heart Health

Helps regulate cholesterol and blood pressure.

Boosting Immunity

Vitamin C in shallots can strengthen the immune system.

Anti-inflammatory

The sulfur content helps reduce inflammation in the body.

Potential Cancer Prevention

Contains antioxidants that fight free radicals and reduce the risk of cancer cell development.

Supporting Nerve and Muscle Health

Helps maintain optimal nerve and muscle function, as well as electrolyte balance in the body

Strengthening Bones

Promotes connective tissue health, strengthens bones, and helps prevent bone loss.

How to Plant Shallots

From Land Preparation to a Bountiful Harvest

1

Choose the Right Land and Prepare the Soil Properly

Shallots need loose, fertile soil with good drainage.

2

Hoe the soil 20-30 cm deep to improve the soil structure

3

Create a bed 20-30 cm high with a width of 1-1.2 meters and a distance of 30-40 cm between the beds.

4

Provide basic fertilizer in the form of manure or compost

5

Choose tubers that are healthy, free from disease, and medium sized (5-10 grams per tuber)

Varieties of Shallots

Shallot Varieties You Should Know

Bima Brebes Shallot

The most popular variety in Indonesia, known for its strong aroma and distinctive spicy taste. Ideal for soups and basic seasonings.

Pikatan Shallot

This shallot variety has a harvest time of around 55 days and can last up to six months under normal conditions.

Pancasona Shallot

Known for its larger size, this shallot has a milder flavor and is commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine.

You Must Know!

Indonesia is known as a producer of shallots with high quality varieties, especially from Brebes, Central Java.

Economic and Market Potential

Shallots: A High-Potential Export Commodity

Shallots are not just a cooking ingredient but also an important economic commodity for Indonesia. The demand for shallots is consistently stable in both local and international markets. Indonesia exports shallots to Southeast Asian countries like Thailand and Singapore. With modern cultivation techniques, you can increase your harvest and gain significant profits from this commodity.