How to Avoid Tears When Chopping Onions: The essential aroma and flavor of onions in many dishes is sometimes overshadowed by their ability to bring tears to the eyes of even the most resistant.
This information was provided by CNN, citing Dr. Abby Thiel, food scientist , reports URA-Inform.
Why are we crying?
Dr. Abby Thiel, a food scientist, points out that the “burning mechanism” inherent in onions evolves to make them less attractive to eat. This is due to the peculiarities of its cellular structure, which, when damaged, activates the enzyme and amino acids, forming sulfur compounds and other substances that evaporate into the air and irritate the eyes.
How to avoid this?
To avoid tears when chopping onions, experts recommend using a fan to blow out air containing molecules that cause irritation, and wearing safety glasses that will create a reliable barrier against these substances.
Another tip is to cool the onions before slicing, which can be done by placing them in the refrigerator or even freezing them. However, it is worth considering that this may change its structure, so you should not use this method for all dishes.
Warming the onion in the microwave before cutting can also reduce its evaporation, and adding an acid to it, such as vinegar or lemon will help reduce eye irritation by slowing down the action of the enzyme that causes this phenomenon.
Some people also recommend lighting a candle while chopping onions, as this can block evaporation. However, the effectiveness of this method may depend on the type of candle and its scent, which can only serve as an additional aspect of the comfortable cutting process. Thus, now it becomes clear how to protect yourself from tears when chopping onions.
The benefits of onions
First, onions — a real storehouse of antioxidants. Its composition is rich in flavonoids and polyphenols, which help protect body cells from free radicals, preventing the development of various diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular diseases. In addition, onions have anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of phytochemicals such as quercetin and allicin. They help reduce inflammation in the body and strengthen the immune system, making us more resistant to various infections and diseases.
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