5 Easy Ways to Chop Garlic and Onion Without Tears

We all love the flavor of garlic and onion, but let’s face it—chopping them can be one of the most unpleasant kitchen tasks. Onions make us tear up, and garlic leaves a lingering smell on our hands. Luckily, there are simple tricks to make the process quicker, cleaner, and more enjoyable. Here are five easy ways to chop garlic and onion without tears.

1. Use a Sharp Knife and Proper Technique

A dull knife crushes onions instead of slicing them, releasing more of the irritating compounds that make you cry. Keep your knives sharp and use smooth, quick cuts. For garlic, smash the clove lightly with the side of the knife to peel it easily before chopping.

2. Chill the Onion Before Cutting

Pop your onion into the fridge for about 15 minutes before chopping. The cold slows down the release of the compounds that cause eye irritation, meaning fewer tears in the kitchen.

3. Try Simple Kitchen Hacks

Some people swear by cutting onions under running water or using a small fan to blow the fumes away. While not perfect, these hacks can help reduce discomfort if you don’t have special tools on hand.

4. Use a Food Processor or Electric Chopper

If you cook often, a food processor can save you lots of time. It quickly chops onions, garlic, and other vegetables with minimal effort. However, it can be bulky, requires electricity, and cleaning it afterward isn’t always fun.

5. Choose a Manual Garlic & Onion Press

The easiest, most convenient solution? A Manual Garlic & Onion Press – Stainless Steel Vegetable Chopper. With sharp stainless steel blades and a simple press-down design, it chops garlic, onion, and even ginger or chili in seconds—without the mess or tears. Plus, it’s compact, safe, and easy to clean.

Whether you’re making a quick stir-fry or prepping ingredients for a family dinner, these tips will help you chop smarter, not harder. Give them a try and enjoy cooking without the hassle!

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