Learning how to cut an onion might seem like a simple task, but achieving perfectly diced onion pieces without the onion falling apart can be a challenge.
Guy Turland is a chef, TV Host and cookbook author. He has some simple tips that will have you cutting onions like a pro.
How to cut onions without them falling apart
If you’ve ever had a messy pile of diced onion, this is for you. Here are step-by-step instructions for cutting an onion, according to Chef Guy.
Step 1: Prepare the onion
Begin by cutting off the tip of the onion, not the root end, and then peel off the skin. This sets the stage for a clean and efficient method of cutting onions.
Step 2: Halve and stabilise
Cut the onion in half and lay one-half flat on the cutting board. Chef Guy recommends keeping the root end intact to connect the onion layers, allowing for easier dicing when you chop an onion.
Step 3: Create horizontal cuts
Make horizontal cuts parallel to the cutting board, starting from the stem end and stopping just before you reach the root end. These cuts create slices while keeping the onion layers attached as you chop an onion.
Step 4: Craft vertical cuts
Next, make vertical cuts perpendicular to the cutting board, starting from the stem end and stopping just before reaching the root end. You’ll notice the onion taking the shape of small pieces while the root end holds everything together as you chop an onion.
Step 5: Skip the diagonal cuts
Unlike traditional methods that involve diagonal cuts, Chef Guy recommends avoiding them. Instead, proceed directly to the next step for easier, efficient dicing when you chop an onion.
Step 6: Dice the onion
Make your way to the final step: dicing. Begin cutting the onion from the stem end towards the root end, utilising the previously created cuts as your guide. Repeat the process with the other half of the onion.
The best knife to cut an onion
When cutting onions, having the right knife can make a significant difference. The best type of knife for cutting onions is a chef’s knife. A chef’s knife, also known as a cook’s knife, is a versatile and multipurpose knife well-suited for various kitchen tasks, including dicing onions.
If you don’t have a chef’s knife handy, make sure your knife is sharp. Not only does this make it easier to chop onions but it will help with the tears.
“A sharp knife minimises the cell damage caused by cutting, preventing the release of onion juices into the air, leading to teary eyes,” says Guy.
Keep the onion stalk attached
Another really important tip is the leave the onion stalk attached.
“Leaving the root end attached serves as an anchor, holding the onion layers together during the dicing process,” says Guy. “This not only makes the process safer but also ensures uniform dicing as you chop an onion.”
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Best products for chopping onions
Effortlessly dice an array of vegetables with the innovative ChopCup Vegetable Dicer by Joseph Joseph. Prepare veggies in 6 cm squares, place on the base, and secure the top cup. Swiftly press down using guide arms, as sharp stainless-steel blades slice through, collecting neatly in the cup. Ideal for onions, chips, and sticks. Disassembles for effortless dishwasher-safe cleaning.
Experience convenience with the One Touch Chopper, a cordless electric food processor that revolutionises chopping. Effortlessly dice, chop, and mince various ingredients with powerful stainless-steel S-shaped blades.
3. Fine onions chopper, $49.81, Amazon
The Anjali Fine Onions Chopper is a versatile kitchen companion for hassle-free chopping.
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