Instagram/@mvnnialwi
Brilio.net - Shallots are one of the irreplaceable kitchen spices in various dishes. With a sharp taste and distinctive aroma , shallots provide a strong foundation of flavor in various dishes, from simple stir-fries to complex soup dishes. The use of shallots in Indonesian cuisine is very extensive, making it an essential ingredient that is always present in the kitchen.
However, despite its usefulness, the process of peeling and slicing onions often causes sore eyes. The sore eyes when slicing onions are caused by the sulfur compounds they contain. When onions are sliced, their cells break and release enzymes that react with the sulfur compounds, producing a gas called syn-propanethial-S-oxide. This gas evaporates and reaches the eyes, causing irritation and stimulating the tear glands to produce tears as a natural response.
Well, to prevent this, some people usually use special tricks. One of them is by using wet wipes. So, dry wipes will be wetted with water and placed parallel to the sliced shallots. Wet wipes are considered to be able to absorb the gas produced by shallots, so they don't make your eyes sting.
But besides that method, there are other methods that can be used. This method was once used by the owner of the Instagram account @mvnnialwi. Through one of the videos uploaded, he admitted to only using a simpler and more powerful method.
photo: Instagram/@mvnnialwi
As reported by BrilioFood from Instagram @mvnnialwi on Thursday (22/8), there are two different methods that can be done. First, by putting the shallots in the freezer. So, the peeled shallots can be collected in a closed container. Next, put the container in the freezer and let it sit for 15 minutes.
photo: Instagram/@mvnnialwi
Well, putting onions in the freezer before slicing them can reduce the stinging sensation in your eyes because the cold temperature slows down the chemical reactions that cause irritation. When onions are chilled, the enzyme that triggers the release of syn-propanethial-S-oxide gas, which causes stinging eyes, becomes less active. Thus, the amount of gas released when the onion is sliced is reduced, so the eyes are less irritated.
photo: Instagram/@mvnnialwi
In addition to freezing, another method that can be done is by using a fan. So when peeling and slicing shallots, you can direct the fan that is on directly towards the shallots. Well, the wind will help neutralize the acid levels in the air, so that it doesn't sting your eyes.
(brl/lut)
