How to Not Tear When Cutting Onions
Cutting onions can be a particularly eye-watering experience for many people. The sharp, volatile compounds in onions, such as syn-Propanethial-S-oxide, are released when they are cut, causing tears to well up in the eyes. While this is a natural response, it can certainly be uncomfortable and distracting. Here are some tips to help you cut onions without shedding a tear.
1. Keep the Onions Cold
Before you start cutting your onions, try keeping them in the refrigerator for a while. Cold onions have less volatile compounds, which means they will produce fewer tears. Just be sure not to freeze them, as this can alter the texture and flavor of the onion.
2. Use a Sharp Knife
A dull knife can cause more irritation to your eyes than a sharp one. When cutting onions, use a sharp, smooth-edged knife to minimize the release of volatile compounds. A well-maintained blade will also make the task easier and faster, reducing the amount of time you spend with your eyes near the onions.
3. Cut in Chunks
Instead of slicing onions into thin strips, cut them into larger chunks. This reduces the surface area exposed to air, which in turn decreases the release of tear-inducing compounds. Plus, larger pieces are easier to manage and less likely to irritate your eyes.
4. Hold the Knife Properly
When cutting onions, grip the knife firmly with a claw-like grip. This helps to minimize the amount of steam and onion particles that can reach your eyes. Additionally, keep the blade as close to the cutting board as possible to avoid splashing.
5. Use a Cutting Board with a V-Notch
A cutting board with a V-notch can be particularly helpful when cutting onions. The V-notch collects excess juice and volatile compounds, preventing them from reaching your eyes. If you don’t have a board with a V-notch, you can create one by cutting a small V-shape in a regular cutting board.
6. Breathe Through Your Nose
It may seem counterintuitive, but trying to hold your breath or breathe through your mouth can make your eyes water more. Instead, focus on breathing through your nose. This will help to minimize the amount of steam and volatile compounds that reach your eyes.
7. Wear Goggles
For those who still find cutting onions to be an eye-watering experience, wearing goggles can be a practical solution. They will provide a physical barrier between your eyes and the onion steam, keeping your tears at bay.
By following these tips, you should be able to cut onions without shedding a tear. Happy cooking!
