Peel the shallots and put them in a pot. Add vinegar and 1/8 litre water. Wash and slice the chillies and add them to the shallots. Add spices, salt and thyme twigs.
Bring everything to the boil and stew at low heat for about 15 minutes. Pour hot into glasses and close them immediately. Makes about 2 glasses of 1/2 litre each.