EVEN the most hardened people around have come a cropper thanks to the humble onion.
It doesn't matter how happy you're feeling, all it takes is a particularly pungent version and as soon as you start chopping it'll have you in floods of tears.
The reason onions make you cry is because they contain molecules called amino acid sulfoxides.
When you cut into them the molecules are released and they form a type of acid.
That they reacts with the air and when the resulting gas hits your eye it reacts with the water there to create sulphuric acid, which burns.
Cue more tears as you eyes tries to get rid of the stinging.
Now you know why the stinging happens, how can you stop it?
Light a candle
The idea is that the flame will get rid of some of the fumes which cause the gas.
Without them, you shouldn't have as much of a problem.
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Freeze it first
You need to pop the onion in the freezer about 15 minutes before you want to chop it.
The cold is supposed to stop it releasing the molecules which cause all the problems.
Slicing an onion in water works too, again because it stops the vapour hitting your eyes.
Soak it
Popping an onion in water once it's peeled but not cut also helps.
It apparently draws out the compounds, meaning there aren't as many to react with your eyes.
Use a spoon
Pop a spoon in your mouth while you cut your onion and you won't cry.
It works because the chemicals bind to the metal of the spoon before they can get to your eyes, so you don't cry.
Get chewing
Some people suggest putting a bit of bread in your mouth, with part of it hanging out.
This is supposed to catch some of the chemicals before they reach your eyes.
Chewing gum also helps as it makes you breathe through your mouth, which disperses the irritants more. That means less get to your eyes, so you won't cry.
Like this? Then find out why your salad drawer is the deadliest place in your kitchen here, and how to make the perfect boiled egg.
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