Brilio.net - Shallots are the main ingredient in various dishes, but the process of peeling them is often an annoying job for many people. In addition to being time-consuming, peeling shallots often makes the eyes sore and watery. No wonder, many consider this job as one of the most annoying steps in cooking preparation.
The stinging sensation in the eyes when peeling onions is caused by sulfur compounds released by onions when the skin is peeled. These compounds react with the water in the eyes, producing acids that trigger the stinging sensation. In addition, the small size of onions makes the peeling process more complicated and requires extra care so that the skin comes off perfectly.
However, there are actually some practical ways to reduce this difficulty. With simple tricks, such as soaking the onions in warm water before peeling, this job can be done faster and with less pain. But instead of soaking it first which takes longer, there are other more practical and faster ways, you know.
An Instagram user @putrimegacahyaningtyas once revealed a simple trick to peel shallots faster. Through one of the videos she uploaded, she admitted that it only took a few seconds to peel the shallots. In addition to being faster, of course the shallots are also safe to peel because they don't sting the eyes.
quick trick to peel red onions
Instagram/@putrimegacahyaningtyas
As reported by BrilioFood from Instagram @putrimegacahyaningtyas on Tuesday (7/1), the first thing to do is prepare a frying pan. Then put all the shallots that are to be peeled into it. If so, pour water until all the shallots are submerged.
quick trick to peel red onions
Instagram/@putrimegacahyaningtyas
Next, boil the shallots for a few seconds until the water is hot enough and boils briefly. Now, while boiling, don't forget to stir the shallots. Then lift and drain.
quick trick to peel red onions
Instagram/@putrimegacahyaningtyas
If it still feels hot when held, you can rinse the shallots with running water first. After that, the shallots can be peeled as usual with a knife. Well, the boiling process will make the skin of the onion softer, making it easier to peel quickly.
Additionally, boiling the onion briefly in hot water helps reduce the stinging sensation in your eyes when peeling it because the process changes the sulfur compounds in the onion. When the onion is heated, the sulfur compounds, which are usually volatile and react with the water in your eyes to form acids, become less active. The heat from the water also loosens the outer layer of the onion skin, making it easier to remove without much pressure or friction.
In addition, this process reduces the release of irritant gases that usually occur when onions are peeled raw. This way, the job of peeling onions becomes more comfortable, faster, and of course reduces the risk of sore eyes. This trick is perfect if you need shallots for cooking that does not require their raw texture, such as stir-fries or soups.