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Ingredients
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Sandwich
Fries
Drink
Method
Fries
- 1
Prepare potatoes
Wash and peel the potatoes if you prefer (peels on are fine). Cut each potato into 1/4-inch to 1/3-inch sticks for classic fries. Rinse the cut potatoes under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Pat thoroughly dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- 2
Heat oil
Pour about 3 cups of vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer and heat to 325°F (160°C). If you don't have a thermometer, heat until oil shimmers and a small piece of potato sizzles gently when added.
- 3
First fry (blanch)
Working in batches, fry the dried potato sticks for 4–5 minutes until they are soft but not browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Let them rest while you cook the sandwich and prepare for the second fry.
- 4
Second fry (crisp)
Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the blanched fries in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and crisp. Remove to paper towels, immediately season with kosher salt and paprika if using. Keep warm in a single layer on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven while finishing the sandwich.
Sandwich
- 5
Assemble sandwich
Spread 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard on the inside of one slice of bread. If using, spread 1 teaspoon mayonnaise on the inside of the other slice. Arrange 3 slices of deli ham evenly over one slice of bread. Top the ham with one slice of Swiss and one slice of cheddar cheese. Sprinkle the cheese with 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Close the sandwich with the second slice of bread.
- 6
Butter the bread
Spread or evenly smear the outside faces of both bread slices with the 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Use softened butter so it spreads easily and covers the surface to promote even browning.
- 7
Grill the sandwich
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low to medium heat. Place the sandwich on the skillet and press down lightly with a spatula or a second pan. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, watching so the bread turns golden brown and the cheese melts. If the bread browns too quickly before the cheese melts, lower the heat and cover the pan for a minute to trap heat and help the cheese soften. Flip carefully and cook the other side until golden and the cheese is fully melted.
- 8
Rest and slice
Transfer the grilled sandwich to a cutting board and let rest for 1 minute to allow the cheese to settle. Slice the sandwich in half diagonally and serve hot alongside fries.
