Instantly Prepare Crispy Fried Potatoes and Onions with These 7 Tips

1 Refrigerate the onions before use

To reduce the pungent taste of onions, a simple and effective method is to refrigerate them before cooking. Rinse the onions with water to remove any dirt, then place them in the refrigerator for approximately 30 minutes before use. This technique not only reduces the pungency but also prevents eye irritation when cutting the onions. Additionally, refrigeration helps the onions retain their crispness and distinct sweetness.

2 Soak sliced onions in cold water

Another method to cool down onions and deactivate the sulfur compounds that cause the pungent odor and eye irritation is to soak the sliced onions in cold water. Submerge the onions in ice water for about 10 minutes to reduce the concentration of these compounds and minimize the pungency. This technique also maintains the crispness of the onions, making them ideal for salads.

3 Soak onions in milk

For those who want to remove the pungent taste from onions while preserving a subtle onion flavor, soaking the onions in milk can be effective. However, be aware that using this method completely eliminates the characteristic onion flavor. Consider using this technique if you still desire a hint of onion flavor in the finished dish.

4 Soak onions in sour water or alcohol

Neutralize the compounds responsible for onion pungency by soaking the onions in sour liquids such as lemon juice, vinegar, or alcohol. Create a mixture by combining vinegar/lemon juice or alcohol with water in a 1:1 ratio, and then soak the sliced onions for 10-15 minutes. After soaking, rinse the onions thoroughly with water to remove any residual sour taste that may affect the flavor of the final dish.

5 Microwave the onions

Slice the onions thinly and microwave them on high heat for approximately 10 seconds. Be cautious not to over-microwave the onions. This method also helps reduce the pungency by using high heat to minimize the characteristic flavor.

6 Blanch onions in hot water

Similar to using a microwave, blanching onions in hot water at high heat helps to reduce pungency. Bring water to a boil and quickly blanch the onions, preserving their crispness and sweetness while minimizing the pungent flavor.

7 Soak onions in baking soda

Baking soda is a useful ingredient for removing the pungency of onions. Its alkaline nature neutralizes the acidity in onion slices, drastically reducing the pungent flavor without causing harm to your health.