Disco Fries (New Jersey)

New Jersey often gets a bad rap.  Whether it be in popular culture or from those too-cool-for-school New Yorkers, New Jersey can be made to feel like it can't match up.  So, as I sat in the Newark-Liberty Airport and wait for a six-hour flight to Belfast, I decided to learn more about what keeps Jerseyites happy and well-fed.  And I discovered a throughly decadent treat called Disco Fries!  

Based on the French/Canadian treat poutine, disco fries are mountain of flavors and culinary perspectives.  First, you start with a plate of thick-cut or steak french fries (preferably fried using a two-step method of frying potatoes in 300 degree oil until tender, removing them from the oil to drain, then frying them a second time until golden brown).  After the fries have been properly drained on kitchen towels (NOT paper towels) and salted, you cover them in a rich brown gravy.  I like the less evil version of brown gravy made from a bit of reduced fat onion soup, some fake butter, skim milk, mushrooms and flour to thicken.  Trust me, you don't want to put meat drippings on french fries.  You won't forgive yourself, and that way you can share with your vegetarian friends.  Then, top it all off with some mozzarella cheese.  Throw that in the oven for a few minutes, and voila.  You can have a great snack/meal/heart attack without having to take the turnpike.  Oh boy, my flight is boarding...

Who said disco is dead?

Happy Eating!