When slicing onions on a mandoline, why is a guard important?

Question

Find out why a mandoline guard is important when slicing onions or soft items.

Answer 1

A mandoline guard is crucial when slicing onions because it protects your fingers from the extremely sharp blade, preventing serious cuts. It also helps maintain a consistent thickness for each slice.

Detailed Explanation:

Mandolines are incredibly efficient tools for creating uniform slices, but their blades are exceptionally sharp. Onions, with their rounded shape and slippery surface, present a particular challenge. Without a guard, your fingers are at high risk of coming into contact with the blade, resulting in a painful and potentially deep cut. The guard provides a secure grip on the onion, keeping your fingers safely away from the blade's path. Furthermore, using a guard ensures consistent pressure and angle, leading to even slices, which is essential for uniform cooking and presentation. The guard typically has prongs or a platform that holds the onion securely, allowing you to glide it across the blade with minimal risk.

Pro Tip:

Even with a guard, always maintain focus and a firm grip. If the onion becomes too small to safely use with the guard, discard the remaining piece or use a knife to finish slicing it. Never try to force the last bit through the mandoline without adequate protection.