How to Not Cry When Cutting Onions: 4 Proven Tips
Cutting onions is a kitchen essential—but it often comes with the annoying sting of tears. Why? When you slice into an onion, it releases sulfur compounds that mix with the moisture in your eyes, creating a mild sulfuric acid. The result? Burning eyes and involuntary tears.
Luckily, there are simple tricks to stop the sting. Here are four charming, effective methods to help you slice onions without crying.
🧊 1. Chill the Onion
Why it works: Cold temperatures slow down the release of the tear-inducing enzyme.
What to do: Pop your onion in the fridge for 30 minutes or in the freezer for 10 minutes before cutting. This simple step significantly reduces the sting.
🥽 2. Wear Goggles
Why it works: Goggles create a physical barrier that prevents onion vapors from reaching your eyes.
What to do: Use swim goggles, safety goggles, or special onion goggles. You might look funny—but your eyes will thank you.
💨 3. Cut Under a Vent or Near a Fan
Why it works: Airflow helps carry away the onion’s volatile compounds before they reach your eyes.
What to do: Slice onions under a stovetop vent, next to an open window, or beside a small fan blowing away from your face.
🍞 4. Hold a Piece of Bread in Your Mouth
Why it works: This old-school kitchen hack works by absorbing some of the onion fumes through the bread and breathing primarily through your mouth.
What to do: Place a piece of bread halfway in your mouth with part of it hanging out while you chop. It’s quirky—but surprisingly effective.
Bonus Tips:
-
Use a sharp knife to reduce crushing the onion and releasing more enzymes.
-
Cut the root end last, as it contains the highest concentration of sulfur compounds.
-
Try white onions instead of yellow—they release fewer irritants.
Say goodbye to onion-induced tears and hello to tear-free cooking! With these easy steps, even the most sensitive eyes can handle onion prep like a pro. 🌰👩🍳✨
