Question 1

Why do onions make you cry?

Accepted Answer

Onions produce a chemical irritant known as syn-propanethial-S-oxide. It stimulates the eyes' lachrymal glands so they release tears. Chilling the onions and using a sharp knife can minimize this.

Question 2

What's the best way to cut an onion?

Accepted Answer

Cut the onion in half from stem to root, then peel. Lay the halves cut-side down, slice lengthwise following the curve of the onion, then slice across for a dice.

Question 3

What's the difference between white, yellow, and red onions?

Accepted Answer

White onions are often more crisp and have a clean, sharp flavor. Yellow onions have a nice balance of astringency and sweet in their flavor, becoming sweeter the longer they cook. Red onions, are often more mild and sweet.

Question 4

Can you eat onion skin?

Accepted Answer

While onion skins are not toxic and are loaded with nutrients, they are tough and unappetizing. It's best to remove the skin before eating an onion. However, you could use the skin in stocks for added flavor.

Question 5

How to caramelize onions?

Accepted Answer

To caramelize onions, slice them and cook in a pan over low heat with a bit of oil or butter, stirring occasionally, until they are brown and soft. This may take 15-25 minutes.

Question 6

Why does my onion taste bitter after cooking?

Accepted Answer

If an onion has been cut but left unused for a period of time, it may start to develop a bitter taste. Overcooking can also cause onions to turn bitter, so watch your heat level and cooking time.

Question 7

Is the green sprout in my onion edible?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the green sprout in the center of an onion, also known as the 'onion's flower,' is safe to eat. It might have a stronger flavor, but it won't harm you. You can cut it out if you prefer.

Question 8

How to get the onion smell off my hands?

Accepted Answer

Rubbing your hands on stainless steel under running water can help remove the onion smell. You can also rub your hands with lemon juice, vinegar, or baking soda solution.

Question 9

Can I replace red onions with white onions in recipes?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can substitute one type of onion for another, depending on your taste preference and the specific recipe. However, remember that red onions are often milder and sweeter, while white onions have a sharper flavor.

Question 10

What does it mean to 'sweat' onions?

Accepted Answer

"Sweating" onions refers to the process of slowly cooking chopped onions in a little oil until they're translucent and soft but not browned. This releases the onions' sweetness and infuses the dish with their flavor.

Question 11

Analysis of onion

Accepted Answer

Cooking with onions can be an enriching experience given their versatility in different cuisines. However, a few common issues people encounter include tearing up while cutting onions, difficulty in peeling, and achieving the desired texture in dishes.

To get the most out of an onion, consider the dish you're preparing. For example, for a subtly sweet flavor, like in French Onion Soup, caramelize the onions slowly over a low flame. For a more intense, sharp flavor, use raw chopped onions in salads or salsas.

One little known tip to avoid tears while chopping onions is to chill them in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before cutting. Blunting your knife slightly can also help, as a sharper blade tends to release more of the sulfur compounds that cause the stinging sensation in the eyes.

Question 12

When does onion expire?

Accepted Answer

Before the package is opened, and if properly stored, onions usually last for about 2-3 months. Once the onion is peeled or chopped, it should be refrigerated and consumed within 10-14 days. If you have a cut onion and it's been out at room temperature for more than two hours, toss it out. If you've cooked onions, they can be fridge-stored for about 7-10 days. Freezing is a trickier storage method for onions, as freezing changes their texture and makes them softer. However, if you don't mind this texture change, chopped onions can be frozen for 10-12 months.

Question 13

How do you tell if onion is bad?

Accepted Answer

Your senses are the best instruments in this case. If the onion has a sour or unpleasant smell, it's likely gone bad. Sliminess or mold are other telltale signs of spoilage. Over time, onions can start to soften, and while not necessarily unsuitable for eating, they might not be as good. Finally, onions that have started sprouting green tops should ideally not be consumed as they can taste bitter.

Question 14

Tips for storing onion to extend shelf life

Accepted Answer

• Keep whole onions in a dark, cool and dry place to avoid moisture, which can cause them to rot. A pantry or cellar is ideal.

• Don't store onions in plastic bags. The lack of ventilation can affect their shelf life.

• If you've cut an onion but don't need all of it, it's best to store the rest in the refrigerator. Before doing this, wrap it tightly in plastic or put it in a zipper bag.

• Cooked onions should be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator.

• Dicing onions and freezing them in a flat layer in a plastic freezer bag can come in handy for future cooking. They can be easily broken apart for individual use.

• Avoid storing onions near potatoes. The gases released by each vegetable can cause the other to decay quicker.

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