Discover the experts' secrets for avoiding tears when cutting onions
According to experts, when onion gas comes into contact with the eyes, it triggers the formation of an acid that stimulates the tear glands, resulting in the production of tears. Tolerance to this effect of onions may vary from person to person.
When we cut the onion, its cells are damaged, releasing a gas called sulfenic acid - Photo Reproduction
Chopping onions is a basic culinary task, but Many of us avoid this simple activity due to the inevitable consequences that it causes. Experts explain that eye irritation when cutting onions has a specific purpose for the plant. This is the onion's defense mechanism, designed to discourage its ingestion, as is the case in several other plants that develop similar strategies, such as thorns, pimples or a bitter taste, to avoid being consumed.
The onion's natural protection is derived from its cellular structure, which contains distinct compartments to isolate potentially reactive substances. When these cells are damaged, as occurs when cutting with a knife, an enzyme and an amino acid combine, resulting in the formation of sulfur compounds. Simultaneously, another enzyme releases vapors into the air, which eventually reach the eyes. When these vapors react with moisture in the eyes, small amounts of sulfuric acid are generated, causing irritation to the cornea and inducing crying.
According to experts, there are secrets and techniques that help minimize or even eliminate this discomfort. In this article, we're going to reveal these tricks so you can cut onions without fear of tears.
Cutting Vegetables Without Tears
Keep Onions in the Refrigerator: Before cutting, place the onions in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. The cold helps reduce the release of irritating gasses that cause crying.
Sharpen your Knives: Using a sharp knife can help minimize the release of tear gas. Dull knives tend to crush the onion cells more, releasing more irritating substances.
Cut in a Well-Ventilated Area: If possible, cut onions near an open window or under a fan. This helps disperse irritating gasses and reduce the impact on the eyes.
Soak Onions in Water: Soaking onions in water for a few minutes before cutting can help reduce the release of volatile compounds that cause tears.
Use Swimming Goggles: It sounds strange, but wearing swimming goggles or goggles can protect your eyes from onion vapors, thus preventing crying.
Light a Candle: Lighting a candle near the cutting area can help burn off irritating gasses before they reach your eyes.
Cut the Onion Under Running Water: Cutting the onion under running water can help prevent the release of irritating gasses. Additionally, water helps wash away these compounds before they reach your eyes.
Breathe through your mouth and not your nose: When cutting onions, breathe through your mouth and not your nose. This can reduce the amount of irritating gasses reaching your airways.
Use Fresh Onions: Fresh onions tend to release fewer irritating gasses than old onions. Always choose firm onions with no signs of wilting.
Freeze the Onion Before Chopping: Freezing the onion for a few minutes before cutting can help reduce the release of irritating gasses.
Turn up the heat: Using heat to reduce vapors in the microwave before cutting. The time required varies from 30 seconds to a few minutes, depending on the size of the onion. However, it is advisable to only carry out this process when the texture of the onion is not important, as using the microwave can affect the desired crispiness.
By following these simple tips, you will be able to cut onions without the discomfort of tears. Try these tricks next time you're in the kitchen and see what a difference they can make.
