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Ingredients
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Pimento Cheese
Fries
Scallion Agrodolce
Finishing & Optional
Method
Pimento Cheese
- 1
Make the pimento cheese
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth using a spatula. Stir in shredded cheddar, chopped pimientos, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning. Refrigerate while preparing fries so flavors meld (at least 15 minutes).
Fries
- 2
Prepare potatoes
If using whole potatoes, cut peeled or unpeeled russets into 1/3- to 1/2-inch fries. Rinse in cold water until water runs clear to remove excess starch, then pat dry thoroughly with kitchen towels.
- 3
Coat and preheat oil
Toss dried fries with cornstarch and the 1 tsp kosher salt to coat evenly. Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 325°F (163°C) for the first fry. If using a stovetop and you do not have a thermometer, heat oil until a small piece of bread sizzles gently.
- 4
First fry
Working in batches, fry the potatoes at 325°F for 4–6 minutes until tender but not browned. Use a slotted spoon to remove fries and drain on a rack or paper towels. Let rest for 5 minutes.
- 5
Second fry
Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the rested potatoes in batches until golden brown and crisp, about 2–3 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels; season immediately with a pinch more salt if desired.
Scallion Agrodolce
- 6
Make the agrodolce
While fries are resting, combine red wine vinegar and sugar in a small bowl and stir until sugar dissolves. Whisk in olive oil, a pinch of salt, and red pepper flakes. Add sliced scallions and let sit for at least 5 minutes to soften and marinate, stirring occasionally.
Assembly & Optional Egg
- 7
Assemble the fries
Pile hot fries on a serving platter or individual plates. Spoon dollops of pimento cheese over the fries (or scatter shredded cheese if you prefer melted pockets). Drizzle some of the scallion agrodolce over the top and sprinkle with chopped chives. Serve extra pimento cheese on the side.
- 8
Optional egg (add-on)
If adding an egg, fry or poach one per serving just before assembling. For a fried egg: heat 1 tsp oil in a small skillet, crack in egg, season lightly with salt and cook until whites are set and yolk is at desired doneness. For a soft-poached egg: bring simmering water with a splash of vinegar, create a gentle whirlpool, slip in a cracked egg and poach 3–4 minutes. Place egg atop the assembled fries for a rich finish.
- 9
Serve
Serve immediately so fries remain crisp. Provide extra pimento cheese and scallion agrodolce on the side for guests to add more if desired.
