In-N-Out Animal Style Fries (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Special Sauce

01 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
02 - 2 tablespoons ketchup
03 - 1/2 tablespoon rice vinegar or white vinegar
04 - 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
05 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
06 - 1/2 tablespoon chili flakes (optional)

→ Fries and Toppings

07 - 1/2 bag frozen French fries
08 - 4 slices American cheese or an equivalent amount of shredded cheddar cheese
09 - 2 onions, diced
10 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
11 - 1 tablespoon neutral oil
12 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

# Instructions:

01 - Melt butter with neutral oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add diced onions and salt. Stir every few minutes and cook gently until onions become golden and caramelized, about 30 minutes. If browning too quickly, reduce heat to avoid burning.
02 - In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, vinegar, sweet relish, sugar, and optional chili flakes. Stir until fully blended and set aside.
03 - Bake or fry frozen French fries according to package instructions until crisp and golden.
04 - Arrange hot fries on a serving platter. Place American cheese slices or shredded cheddar evenly over the fries. Place under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes until cheese is melted.
05 - Spoon caramelized onions evenly over the melted cheese, drizzle prepared sauce generously on top, and serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Keep onions moving in the pan to ensure even caramelization and prevent burning.
02 - Chili flakes in the sauce are optional and can be omitted for a traditional flavor profile.
03 - American cheese provides an authentic result, but mild cheddar may be substituted based on preference.