The Best Way to Peel an Onion

Don't Cry for Me, Oniontina!

If you attempt to peel an onion by first picking away at the papery husk, you may still be peeling well past bedtime! Here is the best way to peel an onion.

Things You'll Need

• Onion(s) of your choosing
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Instructions

1. 

   Flip the onion on it's side and grab hold at least half way up from the bottom. Cut off the root end of the , beginning at least 1/2-inch from the root to remove the tough core.

2. 

   Stand the onion up, with the sprout side pointing up.

3. 

   Grab the onion, making an inverted "U" shape with your hand. Holding the onion firmly, gingerly insert the knife inside the "U" and slice the onion in half.

4. 

   Lay one half on cutting board with flesh side facing down. Hold the onion half, and slice off the sprout end. Start slicing at least 1/2-inch from the base of the sprout to remove the papery and withered portion of the sprout end.

5. 

   Pick up the onion half and begin the actual peeling process. Start at the corner of your choosing, and use your fingernail or the sharp tip of the knife to lift up the first two layers of the onion (papery husk and first thinner layer). Peel it straight back.

6. 

   Repeat the process for the other half. After the onion is peeled, proceed to chop or slice it as needed.

Tips & Warnings

• If you only need half an onion, leave the peel and sprout end on other half, and wrap it in plastic wrap or store in a Ziploc bag in the fridge for later use. Keeping the peel on will help the onion maintain freshness and moisture level.

• Always keep your fingers back and curled under to avoid slicing yourself.