Animal Style Fries: The Ultimate Guide to This Irresistible Fast Food Delight

Animal Style Fries are not just a side dish; they are a culinary experience that elevates the humble French fry to new heights. Originating from the iconic In-N-Out Burger chain, these fries are smothered in a rich, savory blend of melted cheese, grilled onions, and a special sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. The history of Animal Style Fries is deeply rooted in California’s fast-food culture, where they have become a beloved secret menu item among fans.

What makes Animal Style Fries so irresistible is their perfect combination of crispy texture and indulgent toppings. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the crunchy fries and the gooey cheese, making them a favorite for those seeking comfort food that satisfies both hunger and cravings. Whether enjoyed as a late-night snack or a fun addition to a casual meal, Animal Style Fries are a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a delicious treat. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will surely become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Salt (to taste)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup diced onions (preferably yellow onions)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparing the Potatoes

1. Start by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. I like to use a vegetable brush for this step to ensure they’re clean. 2. Once washed, peel the potatoes using a vegetable peeler. If you prefer skin-on fries, you can skip this step, but I find that peeling gives a smoother texture. 3. Cut the potatoes into fries. Aim for about 1/4 inch thick for the perfect fry. I usually cut them lengthwise into planks and then slice them into strips. 4. After cutting, soak the fries in a large bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes. This helps to remove excess starch and results in crispier fries. If you have time, soaking them for a few hours or even overnight in the fridge is even better. 5. Once soaked, drain the fries and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because excess moisture can lead to soggy fries when frying.

Making the Animal Style Sauce

6. In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, and dill pickle relish. 7. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper to the mixture. 8. Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. I usually add a pinch more salt or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. 9. Set the sauce aside in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld while you prepare the fries.

Frying the Fries

10. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You can use a thermometer to check the temperature, or if you don’t have one, drop a small piece of potato into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready. 11. Carefully add a batch of fries to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them in batches if necessary. 12. Fry the potatoes for about 4-5 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. I like to stir them occasionally to ensure even cooking. 13. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the fries from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. While they’re still hot, sprinkle them with salt to taste. 14. Repeat the frying process with the remaining batches of fries.

Caramelizing the Onions

15. In a skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot, add the diced onions. 16. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes until they are soft and caramelized. You want them to be a deep golden brown for that sweet flavor. 17. Once caramelized, remove the skillet from heat and set the onions aside.

Assembling the Animal Style Fries

18. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is optional, but it helps to melt the cheese perfectly. 19. In a large serving dish or individual plates, layer the hot fries. 20. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese generously over the fries. 21. Next, add the caramelized onions on top of the cheese. 22. Place the assembled fries in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. 23. Once the cheese is melted, remove the fries from the oven and drizzle the prepared Animal Style sauce generously over the top. 24. For an extra touch, you can add more diced onions or even some chopped fresh herbs like parsley for color. 25. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your homemade Animal Style Fries!

Tips for Perfect Animal Style Fries

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Conclusion:

In summary, these Animal Style Fries are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their snacking game. The combination of crispy fries, melted cheese, and that signature tangy sauce creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying them as a side dish or indulging in them as a late-night snack, these fries are sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your Animal Style Fries with a juicy burger or a refreshing salad to balance out the richness. You can also experiment with variations by adding toppings like jalapeños, bacon bits, or even avocado for an extra layer of flavor. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for these Animal Style Fries together! Happy cooking! Print