Fried Shallot Makes the List of the World's Best Condiments According to Taste Atlas

In a dish, condiments play a role in enhancing flavor. Each country has its own distinctive food complements.

According to the Croatian guide website, Taste Atlas, fried shallots are ranked as the second-best condiment in the world, with a score of 4.6 out of 5.

This traditional Indonesian seasoning is made from thinly sliced red onions that are deep-fried until crispy.

"This seasoning is usually sprinkled on various Indonesian dishes such as fried rice, chicken satay, meatballs, semur (a type of stew), and oxtail soup," Taste Atlas wrote in its report.

On par with fried shallots are two Italian condiments, *aceto balsamico tradizionale* and *aceto balsamico* or balsamic vinegar, both achieving a score of 4.6 points.

Traditional balsamic vinegar is made from the juice of Trebbiano and Lambrusco white grapes, cooked until thickened. After that, *aceto balsamico tradizionale* is stored in wooden barrels for fermentation for a minimum of 12 years.

Generally, this condiment, typical of Modena, Italy, is often used as a dressing for salads.

"Traditionally, balsamic vinegar is made from late-harvested, locally grown Trebbiano grapes," Taste Atlas wrote.

Here is a complete list of the top 10 best condiments in the world as of December 30, 2023, according to Taste Atlas:

1. *Aceto balsamico tradizionale* (Italy): 4.6 points
2. Fried shallots (Indonesia): 4.6 points
3. *Aceto balsamico* (Italy): 4.6 points
4. *Maldon sea salt* (UK): 4.6 points
5. *Dusseldorfer mostert* (Germany): 4.5 points
6. Salty soy sauce (China): 4.4 points
7. Maple syrup (Canada): 4.4 points
8. *Gochujang* (South Korea): 4.4 points
9. *Maras salt* (Peru): 4.4 points
10. *Moutarde de Dijon* (France): 4.3 points

Outside the top 10 list, another Indonesian condiment, sweet soy sauce, ranks 30th in the world with a score of 4.1 points.

(See also: Indonesian Sambal Among Southeast Asia's Best Sauces According to Taste Atlas)