It’s been almost a decade since the internet first laid eyes on the now-iconic “this onion won’t make me cry” meme, and it’s still as hilarious as ever. The image, which features a person holding up a red onion with the caption “this onion won’t make me cry,” perfectly captures the frustration that comes with cutting onions. But why has this meme endured for so long? Let’s take a closer look.
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The Origins of the Meme
The “this onion won’t make me cry” meme first appeared on the internet in 2013, when a user named pheonixinsanity posted it on Imgur. From there, it quickly spread to other social media sites like Reddit and Twitter, and before long it had become a viral sensation. People loved the meme because it was relatable – almost everyone has experienced the agony of cutting onions – but it also had a tongue-in-cheek humor that made it stand out.
Why We Love It
So what is it about this meme that makes it so enduringly popular? For starters, it’s just plain funny. The image of someone confidently holding up an onion and declaring that it won’t make them cry is inherently absurd, and it’s the kind of thing that’s bound to make people laugh. But beyond that, the meme also taps into a common kitchen struggle that many people can relate to. Cutting onions is notoriously difficult, and the fact that this meme acknowledges that struggle in a lighthearted way makes it all the more appealing.
The Response from Onion Experts
Of course, not everyone is amused by the “this onion won’t make me cry” meme. Some onion experts have taken issue with the idea that a certain type of onion can magically prevent tears. In reality, the compounds that make onions so pungent are present in all varieties, so there’s no such thing as an onion that won’t make you cry. However, even these experts can appreciate the humor of the meme. As one onion scientist told NPR in 2017, “The fact that people believe this is hilarious.”
How to Cut Onions Without Crying
While the “this onion won’t make me cry” meme may be a joke, there are some real tips and tricks to help you cut onions without shedding tears. Here are a few strategies to try:
Chill the Onion
Putting your onion in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes before cutting can help reduce the amount of gas released when you chop it, which in turn can reduce your tears.
Use a Sharp Knife
A dull knife can crush the onion’s cells, releasing more gas and making you cry more. Make sure your knife is sharp and in good condition before you start chopping.
Cut Under Running Water
Running water can help wash away the onion’s gas before it can get to your eyes. Try cutting your onion under a stream of running water to see if it helps.
Wear Goggles
Yes, it may look silly, but wearing goggles while you chop onions can be a surprisingly effective way to keep tears at bay. The goggles will protect your eyes from the onion’s gas, so you can chop away without any weeping.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, there’s no denying the frustrating power of the onion. But with a little bit of humor and some helpful tips, you can overcome this kitchen obstacle – and maybe even have a good laugh while you’re at it. So the next time you’re cutting onions, just remember: this onion won’t make me cry…or will it?
