Thanks to These Tricks, Cutting the Onion Without Crying

Onion is a vegetable present in many recipes. With its sweet and strong flavor, it manages to give that extra touch to any dish. However, every time we go to cut it, we inexorably begin to cry. Fortunately, there are some helpful tricks to prevent this inconvenience. Let’s explore these tips to make onion chopping a tear-free experience.

When we cut the onion, we always find ourselves crying due to the release of chemicals inherent in the vegetable. Onion contains enzymes and sulfur compounds, including allicin. When sliced, these compounds react, forming sulfuric acids. These volatile acids combine with the ambient humidity, creating an irritant that stimulates tear glands in our eyes, leading to the familiar crying reaction.

Useful tricks for cutting onions without tears

To mitigate this annoying but harmless phenomenon, take some precautions. Cut the onion directly under running water to wash away the stinging substance as you chop. Alternatively, you can soak the onion in water and lemon before cutting. Water helps neutralize irritants, while lemon adds a refreshing touch.

Another useful method to avoid tears is to try placing the onion in the freezer for 30 minutes before cutting, or alternatively, chill the knife. If time is limited, cut the onion in a well-ventilated area. Moving air can disperse irritants, reducing their concentration in the air.

Another useful method is to microwave the onion for 30 seconds before cutting to reduce the irritating effect. Finally, rinsing the knife with vinegar as you cut can effectively minimise tearing. Now, it’s time to experiment with these suggestions and discover which one works best for you. With a bit of practice, chopping onions can become a more enjoyable experience.