In-N-Out Animal Style French Fries

• 1 large onion , finely chopped (about 1 ½ cups)
• 2 teaspoons butter
• Kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 2 teaspoons sweet pickle relish
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
• 4 slices American Cheese
• 2 lbs russet potatoes , peeled and cut into ¼ inch fries

Instructions

1. Keep the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. Add onions and ½ teaspoon kosher salt to skillet. Reduce heat to medium low, and cook, tossing and stirring occasionally until onions are well browned, about 15 minutes.
4. Once onions begin to sizzle heavily and appear dry, add 1 tablespoon water to skillet and stir. Continue cooking until water evaporates and onions start sizzling again.
5. Repeat process, adding 1 tablespoon of water with each iteration until onions are meltingly soft and dark brown, about 3 times total. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside while leaving any residual butter in the pan.
6. To make the animal fry spread: Add mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, sugar, and vinegar to a small bowl and stir to combine.
7. Dry the potatoes. Heat oil to 365 degrees
8. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until the fries start turning a bit whiter. Remove with slotted spoon and do the next batch.
9. To double fry, put the potatoes back in the hot oil after they’ve cooled and fry a second time for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Place fries on plate, cover with slices of American Cheese, melted onions, and the animal style spread. Serve immediately.