Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cut a red onion without crying, including what type of knife to use and how to properly prepare the onion.
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Introduction
Onions are a staple in many kitchens around the world. They add flavor and nutrition to a variety of dishes, but they can also be a source of tears when cutting them.
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to minimize the crying while cutting onions. First, choose a good quality onion. Second, cut off the root end and the top of the onion. Third, peel off the outer layer of the onion. Fourth, cut the onion in half from the root end to the top. Fifth, cut each half of the onion in half. Sixth, slice the onion in the desired thickness. Seventh, soak the onion slices in cold water for 10 minutes before cooking them.
By following these steps, you can enjoy onions in your favorite dishes without all the tears!
Step One: Choose the Right Onion
There are three main types of onions: yellow, white, and red. Each type of onion has a different level of sulfur, which is what makes you cry. Red onions have the highest level of sulfur, which is why they’re the hardest to cut without crying. If you want to avoid tears, choose a yellow or white onion.
Step Two: Cut Off the Top
Now that the onion is peeled, you’ll need to cut off the root end and the stem. To do this, cut about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) from the root end, then cut off the stem. You can cut these off at any point; there’s no need to be precise.
Next, cut the onion in half so that the root end is divided in two. Again, there’s no need to be precise; an approximate cut will suffice. Once the onion is cut in half, you should be able to see the layers of the onion more clearly.
Step Three: Peel the Onion
Remove any loose skin or brown layers from the onion. Using a sharp knife, cut off the top of the onion, about ½-inch from the root end. Make a small incision in the root end and then peel off the skin of the onion, working your way from the root end to the top. Be sure to remove any brown layers as you go. If you find that your eyes are stinging, try to hold the onion under running water as you peel it.
Step Four: Cut the Onion in Half
After you have peeled the onion, cut it in half so that the root is still attached to one half. Cut off the root end and discard it. You should now have two onion halves.
Step Five: Slice the Onion
Now that the onion is in quarters, it’s time to start slicing. The most important thing to remember when cutting an onion is to use a very sharp knife. A dull knife will crush the cells of the onion, releasing more of the tear-inducing vapors. A sharp knife will make clean cuts, leaving the cell walls intact.
To slice the onion, start by cutting off the root end. Then, cut the onion in half, peeling off any loose skin as you go. Once the onion is in halves, cut each half into thirds. You should now have six long onions sticks. Finally, start slicing the onions crosswise, as thinly or thickly as you like.
Step Six: Dice the Onion
Cut the onion in half alongside the root with a sharp knife then peel off the skin. Lay one half onion flat on your cutting board. Point the knife towards the root of the onion, and allow your fingers to guide the slicing while your fingers are gripping the onion like a tennis ball. Slice vertically evenly as close to the root as you can. Again, make sure to grip the onion like a tennis ball, keeping all of your fingers pointed down. Next, start dicing the onion by making horizontal cuts perpendicular to the ones you just made. Finally, cut off the root and discard it.
Conclusion
The best way to cut a red onion without crying is to use a sharp knife and to cut it into thin pieces. You can also cut the onion in half, peel it, and then cut it into thin pieces. Another way to reduce the amount of tears when cutting a red onion is to put it in the fridge for 30 minutes before cutting.
