What does “animal style” mean at In-N-Out Burger?

Introduction: In-N-Out Burger

In-N-Out Burger is a fast-food chain that is popular for its fresh and delicious burgers, fries, and shakes. Founded in 1948 by Harry and Esther Snyder in Baldwin Park, California, In-N-Out Burger has become a cult favorite and has expanded to over 350 locations across the western United States. One of the unique features of In-N-Out Burger is its secret menu, which offers several variations of its classic menu items, including the popular "animal style."

What is "animal style"?

"Animal style" is a term used to describe a special way of preparing In-N-Out Burger’s burgers, fries, and shakes. It involves adding a secret sauce made with mayonnaise, ketchup, and pickles, as well as grilled onions, to the menu items. The result is a savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor that is beloved by many In-N-Out Burger fans. "Animal style" can be applied to any burger, including the Double-Double, Cheeseburger, and Hamburger, as well as to fries and shakes.

Origin of the term

The origin of the term "animal style" is unclear, but it is believed to have been coined by In-N-Out Burger’s founders, Harry and Esther Snyder, in the 1960s. According to lore, the Snyders came up with the term to describe the way they prepared their burgers and fries, which involved grilling the onions and adding a special sauce. The name "animal style" was meant to evoke a sense of wildness and flavor, and it quickly caught on among In-N-Out Burger’s regular customers.

What are the ingredients?

The ingredients for "animal style" vary depending on the menu item, but they typically include grilled onions, a special sauce made with mayonnaise, ketchup, and pickles, and sometimes mustard. The sauce is a crucial component of "animal style," and it gives the menu items their distinctive flavor. The grilled onions add a smoky, caramelized taste, while the sauce provides a tangy, creamy, and slightly sweet contrast.

How is it prepared?

To prepare a menu item "animal style," In-N-Out Burger’s cooks will grill the onions on the same griddle where the burgers are cooked. They will then add the special sauce and any other requested toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, and cheese. For fries, the onions and sauce are added on top, while for shakes, the sauce is blended into the ice cream.

Variations of "animal style"

There are several variations of "animal style" that customers can request, depending on their preferences. For example, some people like their burgers "double animal style," which means that there are two patties and two slices of cheese, as well as the special sauce and grilled onions. Others like their fries "well-done animal style," which means that the fries are cooked longer and are extra crispy. Some people even order their shakes "animal style," which means that the sauce is blended into the shake, giving it a unique flavor.

Popular "animal style" menu items

Some of the most popular "animal style" menu items at In-N-Out Burger include the Double-Double, Cheeseburger, Hamburger, and fries. The Double-Double "animal style" is especially popular, as it combines two beef patties, two slices of cheese, grilled onions, and the special sauce. The fries "animal style" are also a fan favorite, as they are crispy, salty, and topped with the special sauce and grilled onions.

Secret menu: "animal style" options

In-N-Out Burger’s secret menu offers several "animal style" options that are not listed on the regular menu. These include the "3×3 animal style," which is a burger with three patties and three slices of cheese, as well as the "Flying Dutchman animal style," which is two beef patties with cheese and the special sauce, but without the bun. Customers can also order their burgers "protein style," which means that the burger is wrapped in lettuce instead of a bun.

Can it be customized?

Yes, "animal style" can be customized to fit each customer’s preferences. For example, some people like to add extra pickles to their "animal style" menu items, while others prefer to leave off certain toppings, such as lettuce or tomato. In-N-Out Burger’s cooks are happy to accommodate these requests, as long as they are within reason.

Nutritional value of "animal style"

"Animal style" menu items are not known for their nutritional value, as they are typically high in calories, fat, and sodium. A Double-Double "animal style" burger, for example, contains over 1,000 calories and 67 grams of fat. The fries "animal style" are also high in calories and sodium, with a large serving containing over 800 calories and 1,100 milligrams of sodium. Customers who are watching their calorie intake or who have dietary restrictions should be aware of these nutritional facts before ordering "animal style" menu items.

Controversy surrounding "animal style"

While "animal style" is a beloved menu item at In-N-Out Burger, it has also been the subject of controversy. Some animal rights activists have criticized the use of the term "animal style," arguing that it promotes the consumption of animal products and trivializes the suffering of animals in the food industry. Others have criticized the high calorie and fat content of "animal style" menu items, arguing that they contribute to the obesity epidemic and other health problems.

Conclusion: "animal style" at In-N-Out Burger

"Animal style" is a unique and flavorful way of preparing In-N-Out Burger’s burgers, fries, and shakes. It has become a cult favorite among In-N-Out Burger fans, and is a popular item on the chain’s secret menu. While it is not known for its nutritional value, "animal style" remains a beloved menu item that is synonymous with In-N-Out Burger’s unique and delicious flavor.

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Elise DeVoe

Elise is a seasoned food writer with seven years of experience. Her culinary journey began as Managing Editor at the College of Charleston for Spoon University, the ultimate resource for college foodies. After graduating, she launched her blog, Cookin’ with Booze, which has now transformed into captivating short-form videos on TikTok and Instagram, offering insider tips for savoring Charleston’s local cuisine.

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