No more tears! 8 foolproof methods for cutting onions
The onion, a true chameleon in the kitchen! Cheap and versatile, it is the secret ingredient of a thousand tasty recipes. Cutting it is, however, an operation often accompanied by an annoying and unavoidable side effect: tears that make us squint. This phenomenon is caused by the release of thiopropanal oxide, an eye irritant. However, there are several strategies to significantly reduce or completely eliminate this reaction. Let's see which methods are the most effective.
1. Cool the onions
Want to say goodbye to tears while cutting onion? Simple! Put it in the refrigerator for at least half an hour (or in the freezer for fifteen minutes if you are in a hurry). The cold will stop the reaction that makes you cry, allowing you to cut the onion in peace.
2. Soak the onion in water
A foolproof trick for cutting onions without making a tear? Water! Just soak it in a bowl with cold water for about ten minutes before slicing. The water captures the troublesome gases, saving you from tears. The only downside? The onion may be a little softer.
3. Use a wet cloth
A little-known trick is to put a wet cloth near where you are cutting the onion. The wet cloth acts as a sponge, absorbing a good portion of the gases before they reach your eyes. Just wet a small towel or tea towel and put it next to the onion as you cut it. It won't solve the whole problem, but it sure will make you cry a lot less!
4. Wear protective goggles
For those who frequently cook onions, the use of protective goggles is a practical and effective solution to prevent lacrimation caused by cutting this vegetable. Both swimming goggles and goggles can create a physical barrier, preventing irritant gases from reaching the eyes. Although it may sound strange, it works really well.
5. Wet the knife while cutting the onion
As you slice the onion, dip the blade of the knife into the water often: this simple act creates a barrier that traps the irritant gas, mitigating the tearing effect.
6. Cut the onion under the hood
By turning on the fume hood while cutting onions, you will create a flow of air that will instantly capture and drive away the irritating gas, thus avoiding tears and the need to interrupt the preparation of your onion dishes.
7. Cut the onion under running water
Although not the most convenient solution, this system offers surprising results in preventing eye irritation caused by cutting onions, making it an excellent alternative for those seeking a natural remedy.
8. Eat bread while cutting onion
Some claim that chewing a piece of bread while cutting onions can help reduce tearing by absorbing some of the irritating gas through saliva. Although there are no conclusive scientific studies on this, many believe that this grandmother's remedy may work through the simple mechanical action of holding the breath and distracting the palate.
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