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How to Properly Cut Onions?

Published in Cooking Basics 2 mins read

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.