Finely chopped onions in 30 seconds: a smart method to try out
Onions are often used as the core ingredient in many dishes from around the world. Maybe we didn't like onions when we were kids, but as adults, perhaps this foodstuff has grown on you (are you thinking of fried onion rings?).
In many fine dishes, we can find all sorts of onions: fresh, red, white, brown, shallots, spring... There are many varieties, but almost all they have one thing in common: they can make us cry. So, why not learn a way to finely chop up onions in a matter of seconds and without shedding any tears!
via Melanie Lionello/Instagram
Some may already know hack, but if not, this is a way to finely chop up onions in just 30 seconds. A video on Instagram shows us how to do this (from Melanie Lionello's feed).
The technique involves taking the onion at the rooted end, and cutting away the base on the opposite side. In this way, you can place the cut face on the cutting board, and the onion will be stable. Hold the onion by the roots and make a series of longitudinal cuts, as if you wanted to cut wedges, but without starting all the way from the top: starting a few millimeters below the top is what you need to do. Once done, turn the onion on its side and cut crosswise to produce a fine mince.
To see this technique demonstrated in detail, check out the video below.
Among other things, it seems that when you cut up an onion without removing the roots first, you prevent the gas that causes tears from being released. So if you chop quickly and leave the roots part intact, the sulfuric acid that causes your tears will not be released at the start of the operation.
Speed and no stress or tears: this is a great kitchen hack!
