Leeks and cousins are two types of vegetables that are related to each other. CHIVES, which have 6 letters, are a type of onion that is related to both leeks and shallots, which have 8 letters. They all belong to the same family of vegetables known as Alliums. Leeks are long and cylindrical in shape, while shallots are small and round. CHIVES are thin and tubular, and they have a mild onion flavor. All three of these vegetables can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and salads to stir-fries and casseroles.