Animal Style Fries are not just a side dish; they are a culinary experience that has captured the hearts and taste buds of food lovers everywhere. Originating from the iconic In-N-Out Burger chain, these fries are a delicious twist on the classic French fry, topped with a mouthwatering combination of melted cheese, grilled onions, and a special sauce that elevates them to a whole new level. The history of Animal Style Fries dates back to the late 1980s, when the secret menu began to gain popularity, turning a simple snack into a beloved staple of American fast food culture.
People adore this dish for its perfect balance of flavors and texturesthe crispy fries, gooey cheese, and savory onions create a symphony of taste that is hard to resist. Whether enjoyed as a late-night snack or a satisfying accompaniment to a burger, Animal Style Fries offer convenience and indulgence in every bite. Join us as we explore how to recreate this iconic dish at home, bringing a taste of California’s fast-food culture right to your kitchen!
Ingredients:
- For the Fries:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt (to taste)
- For the Animal Style Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions (preferably yellow onions)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon pickle relish
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Preparing the Fries
- Wash and Cut the Potatoes: Start by thoroughly washing the russet potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt. Once clean, peel the potatoes if desired (the skin can be left on for a rustic feel). Cut each potato into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick, to create fries. Aim for uniformity in size to ensure even cooking.
- Soak the Potatoes: Place the cut fries in a large bowl filled with cold water. Soak them for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have the time. This step helps to remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries.
- Drain and Dry: After soaking, drain the fries and lay them out on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Pat them dry thoroughly to remove as much moisture as possible. This is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture when frying.
Frying the Fries
- Heat the Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, pour in enough vegetable oil to submerge the fries (about 3-4 inches deep). Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy, as the right temperature is key to crispy fries.
- Fry the Potatoes (First Fry): Carefully add a batch of fries to the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes until they are pale and slightly tender but not browned. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Let Them Rest: Allow the fries to rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period helps to further remove moisture and prepares them for the second fry, which will make them crispy.
- Fry the Potatoes (Second Fry): Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Once the oil is hot, return the fries to the pot in batches and fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Again, use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a fresh paper towel-lined plate. Season with salt immediately while they are still hot.
Preparing the Animal Style Toppings
- Cook the Onions: In a small skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot, add the diced onions and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and translucent. For a deeper flavor, you can cook them longer until they are caramelized, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Animal Style Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, and pickle relish. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This sauce is the signature element of Animal Style Fries, so feel free to tweak it to your liking.
Assembling the Animal Style Fries
- Layer the Fries: Take a generous portion of the freshly fried fries and place them on a serving plate or in a shallow bowl. Make sure to create a nice base for the toppings.
- Add the Cheese: While the fries are still hot, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. The heat from the fries will help melt the cheese
Conclusion:
In summary, Animal Style Fries are a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their snacking game. This indulgent dish combines crispy fries with a rich blend of melted cheese, savory grilled onions, and a tangy special sauce, creating a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying them as a side to your favorite burger or as a stand-alone treat, these fries are sure to satisfy your cravings. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your Animal Style Fries with a refreshing milkshake or a classic burger to create the ultimate fast-food experience at home. You can also experiment with variations by adding toppings like jalapeños for a spicy kick or bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience with friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply treating yourself to a delicious snack, Animal Style Fries are sure to impress. Don’t forget to snap a photo and share it on social media, tagging your culinary creations. Dive into this delightful recipe and discover why Animal Style Fries are a beloved favorite among food enthusiasts everywhere! Print
Animal Style Fries: The Ultimate Guide to This Irresistible Fast Food Delight
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
Enjoy a delicious twist on classic fries with these homemade Animal Style Fries! Crispy fries are topped with melted cheddar cheese, sautéed onions, and a creamy, tangy sauce for a satisfying treat that’s perfect for sharing or indulging on your own.
Ingredients
Scale- 4 large russet potatoes
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions (preferably yellow onions)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon pickle relish
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the russet potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt. Peel if desired, then cut into thin strips (about 1/4 inch thick).
- Place the cut fries in a large bowl filled with cold water. Soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to remove excess starch.
- Drain the fries and lay them out on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Pat them dry thoroughly to remove moisture.
- In a large pot or deep fryer, pour enough vegetable oil to submerge the fries (about 3-4 inches deep) and heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add a batch of fries to the hot oil and fry for about 4-5 minutes until pale and slightly tender. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Allow the fries to rest for 10-15 minutes to remove moisture.
- Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the fries in batches for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Season with salt immediately.
- In a small skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté the diced onions for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent, or longer for caramelization. Remove from heat.
- In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, and pickle relish. Mix well and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Place a generous portion of fries on a serving plate or shallow bowl.
- While the fries are still hot, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top to melt.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding more toppings like jalapeños or bacon bits.
- Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for the crispiest fries.
- Customize the sauce to your taste by adjusting the ingredients.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes