In-N-Out Burger, a West Coast institution, has been a staple for burger enthusiasts and fans of the iconic Double-Double. However, with the rise of plant-based diets and veganism, many are left wondering if their beloved Animal Style Fries can be enjoyed without compromising their values. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of In-N-Out’s Animal Style Fries and explore whether they can be considered vegan.
What Makes Animal Style Fries So Special?
For those unfamiliar, Animal Style Fries are a signature item on the In-N-Out Burger secret menu. They’re essentially the restaurant’s regular fries topped with melted American cheese, grilled onions, and a special sauce. The combination of flavors and textures has made Animal Style Fries a fan favorite, but it also raises concerns about their vegan status.
The Cheese Conundrum
The most obvious obstacle to Animal Style Fries being vegan is the melted American cheese. In-N-Out’s cheese is made from a blend of natural cheese, milk, and other ingredients. As it’s an animal-derived product, it’s clear that the cheese is not vegan.
However, some might argue that there are vegan cheese alternatives available that could be used as a substitute. While this is true, it’s essential to note that In-N-Out Burger does not offer a vegan cheese option for their Animal Style Fries. Even if they did, it’s unlikely that the cheese would be prepared in a way that avoids cross-contamination with animal products.
The Special Sauce Dilemma
In-N-Out’s special sauce is another crucial component of Animal Style Fries. The sauce is a proprietary recipe, and the exact ingredients are not publicly disclosed. However, based on interviews with former employees and food bloggers, it’s believed that the sauce contains a combination of mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, mustard, and vinegar.
While these ingredients might seem innocuous, some may contain animal-derived products or by-products. For example, some brands of mayonnaise use egg yolks or honey, which are not vegan. Additionally, some types of relish or ketchup might contain animal-derived ingredients like gelatin or Worcestershire sauce (which typically contains anchovies).
The Grill Factor
Another concern for vegans is the grill used to prepare the onions and other ingredients for Animal Style Fries. In-N-Out Burger uses a shared grill for both their meat and vegetable products, which raises the risk of cross-contamination. Even if the onions and other ingredients are cooked separately, there’s still a chance that they might come into contact with animal products or by-products.
Can You Make Vegan Animal Style Fries at Home?
While In-N-Out Burger’s Animal Style Fries might not be vegan, it’s possible to create a vegan version at home. Here are some tips for making vegan Animal Style Fries:
Vegan Cheese Options
There are several vegan cheese alternatives available that can be used to make a dairy-free version of Animal Style Fries. Some popular options include:
- Daiya Vegan Mozzarella Shreds
- Follow Your Heart Vegan Gouda
- Kite Hill Vegan Ricotta
These cheeses can be melted and used in place of traditional American cheese.
Vegan Special Sauce Recipes
Creating a vegan version of In-N-Out’s special sauce is a bit more challenging, but it’s still possible. Here’s a simple recipe you can try:
- 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise (such as Vegenaise or Just Mayo)
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon relish
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine these ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth. You can adjust the proportions to taste.
Grilling and Preparation
To make vegan Animal Style Fries, simply grill sliced onions and other ingredients (such as bell peppers or mushrooms) using a vegan-friendly cooking oil. Then, top your fries with the vegan cheese, special sauce, and grilled onions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, In-N-Out Burger’s Animal Style Fries are not vegan due to the presence of animal-derived cheese and potential cross-contamination with animal products. However, it’s possible to create a vegan version of Animal Style Fries at home using vegan cheese alternatives and special sauce recipes.
If you’re a vegan who’s craving the iconic taste of In-N-Out’s Animal Style Fries, don’t be discouraged. With a little creativity and experimentation, you can create a delicious and satisfying vegan version that’s just as tasty as the original.
Final Thoughts
As the demand for vegan options continues to grow, it’s likely that In-N-Out Burger and other restaurants will begin to offer more plant-based alternatives. Until then, vegans can take comfort in knowing that they can create their own vegan versions of beloved dishes like Animal Style Fries.
By being mindful of the ingredients and preparation methods used in our food, we can make more informed choices that align with our values and dietary preferences. Whether you’re a vegan or simply a food enthusiast, the world of plant-based cuisine is full of possibilities and delicious discoveries waiting to be made.
Are In-N-Out Animal Style Fries vegan?
In-N-Out Animal Style Fries are not vegan. The main reason is that they are cooked in the same oil as the restaurant’s animal products, such as burgers and cheese. This cross-contamination makes the fries non-vegan. Additionally, the cheese and Thousand Island dressing used in the Animal Style Fries are animal-derived ingredients.
However, it’s worth noting that In-N-Out does offer a “grilled cheese” option that can be modified to be vegan by swapping the cheese for a vegan alternative and holding the spread. But when it comes to the Animal Style Fries, the cooking process and ingredients used make them unsuitable for a vegan diet.
What makes In-N-Out Animal Style Fries non-vegan?
The primary reason In-N-Out Animal Style Fries are not vegan is the use of animal-derived ingredients, such as cheese and Thousand Island dressing. The cheese is made from dairy, and the Thousand Island dressing contains egg and dairy products. These ingredients are not suitable for a vegan diet.
Furthermore, the cooking process of the fries also contributes to their non-vegan status. In-N-Out cooks their fries in the same oil as their animal products, which means that the fries come into contact with animal residue. This cross-contamination makes the fries unsuitable for vegans who avoid animal products and by-products.
Can I customize In-N-Out Animal Style Fries to be vegan?
While it’s not possible to make In-N-Out Animal Style Fries completely vegan, you can modify the order to make it more vegan-friendly. You can ask for the fries to be cooked in a dedicated fryer or request that they be grilled instead of fried. However, please note that this may not be possible at all locations, and it’s essential to inform the staff of your request.
Additionally, you can ask for the cheese and Thousand Island dressing to be held, and instead, opt for a vegan alternative, such as a vegan cheese or a dairy-free spread. However, keep in mind that the fries will still be cooked in the same oil as animal products, which may not be suitable for all vegans.
Does In-N-Out offer any vegan alternatives to Animal Style Fries?
In-N-Out does offer a “Protein Style” option that can be modified to be vegan. You can order the Protein Style fries without the cheese and Thousand Island dressing and instead, ask for a vegan alternative. However, please note that the fries will still be cooked in the same oil as animal products.
It’s also worth noting that In-N-Out has been testing a vegan patty option at select locations, which could potentially be paired with vegan fries in the future. However, this option is not yet widely available, and it’s essential to check with your local In-N-Out for their current menu offerings.
How can I ensure that my In-N-Out order is vegan?
To ensure that your In-N-Out order is vegan, it’s essential to inform the staff of your dietary preferences. You can ask for modifications to your order, such as holding the cheese and Thousand Island dressing, and opting for a vegan alternative. Additionally, you can ask for your food to be prepared in a dedicated area to minimize cross-contamination.
It’s also a good idea to check the In-N-Out website or consult with the staff about their current menu offerings and ingredients. This will help you make informed choices and ensure that your order aligns with your vegan diet.
Are there any other vegan options available at In-N-Out?
In-N-Out offers a few vegan options, including their grilled vegetables and a side salad without the cheese and dressing. You can also customize your order by asking for a vegan patty option (if available) or opting for a vegan cheese alternative.
However, please note that In-N-Out’s menu is limited, and the options may vary depending on the location. It’s essential to check with the staff about their current menu offerings and ingredients to ensure that you can find a suitable vegan option.
Can I trust In-N-Out to prepare my vegan order correctly?
In-N-Out has a reputation for being accommodating to customers with dietary restrictions. However, it’s essential to inform the staff of your vegan diet and request modifications to your order to ensure that it’s prepared correctly.
Additionally, you can ask questions about the ingredients and preparation methods to ensure that your order aligns with your vegan diet. While mistakes can happen, In-N-Out staff are generally knowledgeable about their menu and ingredients, and they will do their best to accommodate your requests.