This Instructable is about how to cut and chop an onion without crying. I have always used one method when chopping or cutting an onion until last summer; when my son took a cooking class. I was so excited he was taking these classes because I knew he would have a lot to share. Not only did he learn how to cut an onion but how to cut an onion without crying!

Step 1: Why Does Cutting an Onion Make You Cry?

When you cut into the root of the onion it releases gasses that make you cry.

Step 2: Ingredients

1 Onion

Step 3: Tools

1 Sharp Paring Knife (I used a larger knife for one method)
Cutting board
Bowl of water

Step 4: Method 1

Place a bowl of water very near the cutting board where you will be cutting the onion.
Cut off the top of the onion.
Remove the skins.
Slice the onion across almost to the root for slices.
To dice the onion; cut it in half lengthwise and slice lengthwise all the way across as shown (almost to the root of the onion.)
Turn the onion around and slice the sides as shown.
If you pour the water into a glass and drink the water it will probably taste like an onion. ( If you have a strong onion.)

My method was the water trick by itself until I learned how to cut it this way. I like the idea of using water with this method for double protection.

Step 5: Method 2

This method is for people who are very sensitive to the gasses when cutting an onion. This method has some waste so I actually prefer method 1for myself.

Place a bowl of water very near the cutting board where you will be cutting the onion.
Place your knife about 1/3 out from the center of the onion and cut it at an angle to remove the bulb part of the onion.
Remove the core and throw it away.
Remove the onion skins.
You may cut the onion any way you like it now.

I found this method on the internet as well as other tips: http://www.wikihow.com/Chop-Onions-Without-Tears