If you always find yourself using a tissue to wipe away tears after peeling and cutting onions, follow these 5 simple tips to prevent eye irritation caused by cutting onions!
Just cut the onion and it will tear instantly!
You may not know: According to scientists, onion cells break and release sulfenic acid (an inorganic acid containing sulfur). This acid combines with an enzyme called alliinase to form a gas called propanethiol S-oxide.
This gas reacts with the water already present in the eyes to create sulfuric acid, which irritates the eyes. The nervous system interprets this as stimulation and triggers the tear glands to produce more tears to wash away the foreign substance.
5 Tips for Cutting Onions Without Tears
1. Preserve the Onion Root Before Slicing
The root of the onion contains concentrated sulfur compounds and acts as the source of onion cells. By preserving the root, you prevent the complete breakdown of onion cells, avoiding irritation and tears. Peel the onion as usual and slice it from the bottom to the top without cutting off the root before slicing!
The root should be discarded last!
2. Use Fresh Potatoes
Before slicing onions, rub a thin slice of fresh potato on the blade. Fresh potatoes are rich in vitamins and help reduce sulfur in onions, allowing you to cut onions without worrying about eye irritation.
Rub a slice of potato on both sides of the knife blade before cutting onions to prevent eye irritation!
3. Use Vinegar
Mix equal parts water and vinegar and spray or pour it on the cutting board and knife before cutting onions. This will reduce the reaction of sulfur compounds and minimize eye irritation.
4. Chill the Onion Before Cutting
Chilling the onion slows down the reaction of its cells when cut. This slows the release of sulfenic acid and reduces the sensation of irritation and tears. Place the onion in the freezer compartment of the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes before cutting.
Put the onion in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes before cutting
5. Use a Food Processor
If you have tried the previous methods and still experience eye irritation when cutting onions, using a food processor is an effective solution. Peel the onion, remove the roots, and place it in the food processor. Use the stronger mode to grind the onion or the smaller mode to chop it into smaller pieces.
Put the onion in the food processor for convenience!
