Tips for cutting onions without tears
1. Avoid disturbing the root
You can peel the outer layers of the onion, but make sure to avoid disturbing the root. Peel the skin, wash it clean, and keep the root intact.
Peel the onion but keep the root intact (Source: @phongchanh)
After peeling and washing the onion, you can cut off the top part but be sure not to disturb the root. Cut the onion lengthwise and then crosswise. This way, you can avoid tearing up!
Follow these steps (Source: @phongchanh)
2. Put the onion in the freezer for about 15 minutes
This method reduces the amount of acid enzymes released into the air without affecting the taste of the onion. This tip was previously introduced on the Food Detectives program and is considered one of the most effective ways to reduce tears when cutting onions.
Note: You should not keep onions or any other types of onions in the refrigerator for too long as it may cause the fridge to smell.
3. Use vinegar or saltwater
Vinegar, being acidic, and saltwater, being ionized, can neutralize the enzymes that cause tears when cutting onions.
You can apply a layer of vinegar on the cutting board before placing the onion on it. Alternatively, you can cut the onion in half (horizontally to avoid disturbing the root) and soak it in saltwater for about 10 minutes before cutting.
The downside of this method is that it may affect the taste of the onion.
Above are 3 handy tips to help you avoid tearing up when cutting onions. Give them a try and you’ll find that cutting onions can be much simpler.
Source: PNVN
