Schlubby Fries Recipe
perly’s fries topped with havarti & dill cheese, pastrami, russian dressing, chopped pickled peppers & onions, pickled jalapenos
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Ingredients
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Fries
Cheeses
Toppings
Russian dressing
Finish & garnish
Method
Fries
- 1
Prepare potatoes
If using fresh potatoes: peel (optional) and cut potatoes into 1/4–1/2-inch fries. Rinse under cold water until water runs clear to remove starch, then dry thoroughly with a clean towel. If using frozen fries, skip to cooking step.
- 2
Cook fries
Deep-fry method: Heat oil in a deep pot or fryer to 325°F (163°C). Fry potatoes in batches for 3–4 minutes until pale and soft but not browned. Remove and drain on paper towels. Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry in batches again 2–3 minutes until golden and crisp. Drain and season immediately with 1 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Oven method: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss fries with 2 tbsp oil, spread in a single layer on a baking sheet, and bake 20–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp. Season with salt and pepper.
Russian dressing
- 3
Combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp ketchup, 1 tsp prepared horseradish, 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp hot sauce (optional), 1/4 tsp kosher salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper in a bowl. Whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Pastrami & pickles prep
- 4
Chop the thinly sliced pastrami into bite-sized pieces. Drain and roughly chop the pickled peppers and onions. Slice pickled jalapeños into rounds if not pre-sliced.
Assembly
- 5
- 6
Evenly distribute the chopped pastrami over the fries while fries are hot so meat warms slightly.
- 7
Scatter shredded Havarti and dill Havarti evenly over fries and pastrami.
- 8
Place under a broiler set to high (or into a 425°F/220°C oven) for 1–3 minutes just until the cheese melts and becomes slightly bubbly. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- 9
Remove from oven. Drizzle Russian dressing over the melted cheese and fries to taste (start with about 2–3 tbsp and add more if desired).
- 10
Top with chopped pickled peppers & onions and sliced pickled jalapeños.
- 11
Garnish with chopped fresh dill and chives or green onions, if using. Serve immediately while hot and gooey.