Whether you’re a fan of onions or not, like everyone else, you probably dread the moment of cutting them. And for good reason, when you cut onions, you release the sulfur contained in its cells. When these sulfur compounds are released, they come into contact with an enzyme called allinase, producing a volatile gas. This gas travels to our eyes, and transforms into sulfuric acid on contact with tear fluid. Attacked, our eyes therefore produce quantities of tears in an attempt to clean and rinse the mucous membranes abundantly. Exactly the same principle as tear gas. So to avoid this unpleasant moment and enjoy your onions in peace, here are some tips to try. If some are more easily achievable than others, in this specific case, the most ridiculous ones surely prove to be the most effective.
Tip #1: Cool the onion
This is probably the simplest and least improbable tip. Place the onion in the refrigerator or freezer for 10 to 15 minutes before cutting. Cold slows the release of irritating compounds.
Tip #2: Soak the onion
Peel and cut the onion under tap water (or immerse it in a bowl of water) to dissolve some of the gases released. Wetting the blade of your knife will have the same effect and will be much easier to do.
Tip #3: Cut near a draft
Cut the onion near an open window, fan or under the extractor hood to disperse compounds that irritate the eyes. A technique that is best avoided in the middle of winter!
Tip #4: wear swimming goggles
Wearing swimming goggles or a diving mask is a radical but effective solution: these accessories in fact create a waterproof barrier which prevents the irritating gases from the onion from reaching your eyes. Even if it means doing something absurd, a ski mask will be just as effective.
Tip #5: Hold a match between your teeth
However unlikely it may be, a simple match will save you a lot of inconvenience. In fact, the sulfur contained in the red tip of the match neutralizes the irritating compounds released by the onion. To perform this trick, simply hold the match between your teeth, with the red end outside your mouth, while you peel and dice the onion.
Tip #6: stick out your tongue
If you are ready to do anything to avoid crying, here is a final tip, and not the least. By sticking your tongue out while you cut onions, you will create a moist surface other than the eyes, thereby drawing irritating compounds onto your tongue instead of into your eyes. Result: a rather uncomfortable and slightly ridiculous posture, a slight tingling sensation on the tongue, but no crying!
