Garlic vs Shallot

A side-by-side guide to substituting Shallot for Garlic (or vice versa).

Quick answer

Use 0.5 whole of Shallot for every 1 clove of Garlic.

Side-by-side

Garlic

Base unit: clove

Read the full guide: Garlic

Shallot

Conversion: Use 50% as much (0.5 whole per 1 clove)

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Notes: Shallots are milder and sweeter than garlic; use about 1.5× the clove amount or adjust to taste. They work well in vinaigrettes and mild sauces but lack garlic's pungency.

Read the full guide: Shallot

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When to use Shallot instead of Garlic

Shallots are milder and sweeter than garlic; use about 1.5× the clove amount or adjust to taste. They work well in vinaigrettes and mild sauces but lack garlic's pungency. The conversion is use 50% as much (0.5 whole per 1 clove).

Common questions

Can I substitute Shallot for Garlic?

Yes — Shallots are milder and sweeter than garlic; use about 1.5× the clove amount or adjust to taste. They work well in vinaigrettes and mild sauces but lack garlic's pungency. Ratio: Use 50% as much (0.5 whole per 1 clove).

What's the conversion ratio for Garlic to Shallot?

Use 50% as much (0.5 whole per 1 clove). For other quantities, use the SubSwap calculator.

Are Garlic and Shallot interchangeable?

They are similar in most uses, but Shallots are milder and sweeter than garlic; use about 1..

Is Shallot a better substitute than other options for Garlic?

Shallot is one of the options SubSwap lists for Garlic. The 'best' choice depends on your recipe — see the full list of Garlic substitutes.

Looking for more Garlic substitutes beyond Shallot?

See all Garlic swaps →

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