To properly cut onions, follow these steps, which include techniques highlighted in the reference video by Gordon Ramsay:
Preparing the Onion
- Peel the onion: Remove the outer skin of the onion.
- Cut in Half: Cut the onion from the root to the stem end, creating two halves.
Dicing an Onion
- Flat Side Down: Place one half of the onion cut-side down on the cutting board.
- Horizontal Cuts: Make horizontal cuts into the onion, stopping before the root end (Gordon Ramsay suggests holding the onion like a tennis ball to keep it together while making these cuts).
- Vertical Cuts: Make vertical cuts, starting from the edge toward the root, perpendicular to the horizontal cuts.
- Dice: Cut across the onion to create a diced result.
Slicing an Onion
- Flat Side Down: As before, place one half of the onion cut-side down.
- Slice: Cut the onion into thin or thick slices, as required for your recipe, by making vertical cuts from the top to the root.
Safety Tips
- Sharp Knife: Always use a sharp knife to ensure a clean cut and prevent accidents.
- Secure Grip: Maintain a firm grip on the onion while cutting.
- Slow and Steady: Cut slowly and deliberately, especially when starting out.
- Fingertips: Curl your fingertips under to protect them as you cut.
Summary of Gordon Ramsay's Method
Step | Description |
---|---|
1. Secure Grip | Holds the onion like a tennis ball for stability during horizontal cuts. |
2. Horizontal Cuts | Several horizontal cuts are made into the onion before vertical cuts |
Following the above instructions will help you cut onions safely and efficiently, whether you are dicing or slicing them.