The Deep Sea Double from Checkers/Rally's features two crispy, golden-battered fish filets stacked with melted cheese, fresh lettuce, and tangy tartar sauce nestled between a toasted bun, delivering a satisfying combination of crunchy, savory, and creamy flavors.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Fry baskets
- Cooking thermometer
- Prep table
- Tongs
- Spatula
- Sandwich assembly station
- Toaster or grill (for buns)
- Cheese slicer or dispenser
- Lettuce shredder or knife
- Squeeze bottle (for tartar sauce)
- Food storage containers
Ingredients
- 2 crispy, battered fish filets
- 2 slices American cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 2 tablespoons tartar sauce
- 1 hamburger bun
Ensure the fish filets are evenly battered and fried to a crispy golden brown for optimal texture and flavor. Use fresh, shredded lettuce to add a crisp contrast and avoid sogginess in your sandwich. The melted American cheese should be perfectly layered between the filets to create a creamy, savory balance with the tartar sauce. Choose a sturdy hamburger bun that can hold all the ingredients without falling apart during assembly and eating. Your Deep Sea Double from Checkers/Rally's copycat menu will closely replicate the signature crunch and tangy taste that defines this popular sandwich.
Instructions
- Preheat the deep fryer to the recommended temperature (usually 350°F/175°C).
- Place battered fish filets in fry baskets using tongs.
- Fry fish filets until golden-brown and fully cooked (use thermometer to verify doneness).
- Remove fish filets and drain excess oil.
- Toast the hamburger bun using a toaster or grill.
- Place a slice of American cheese on the bottom bun.
- Layer one crispy fish filet on top of the cheese.
- Add the second slice of cheese on top of the first fish filet.
- Place the second fish filet on top of the cheese.
- Evenly spread shredded lettuce over the fish filets.
- Squeeze tartar sauce over the lettuce using the squeeze bottle.
- Cover with the top bun.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Deep Sea Double copycat sandwich from Checkers/Rally's can be easily recreated at home using fresh, readily available ingredients. If you don't have a deep fryer, an air fryer can serve as a healthier alternative to achieve the crispy texture of the battered fish filets. Your choice of cheese can be adjusted to Swiss or cheddar if American cheese isn't on hand, maintaining the creamy meltiness between the fillets. Lettuce can be substituted with thinly sliced cabbage or spinach for a different but equally crisp texture. If tartar sauce is unavailable, you can blend mayonnaise with relish, lemon juice, and a pinch of dill for a quick homemade version.
Tips
Ensure the deep fryer maintains a steady temperature near 350degF (175degC) to achieve the perfect crispy texture on your fish filets. Use a cooking thermometer to confirm the internal temperature of fish reaches at least 145degF (63degC) for safe consumption. When toasting your hamburger bun, aim for a light golden-brown to prevent sogginess when assembling the sandwich. Handle assembled layers gently with a spatula to keep the crispy fish fillets intact and to maintain the sandwich's structural integrity.
Nutritions
The Deep Sea Double from Checkers/Rally's provides a rich source of protein from its two battered fish filets and protein-enhanced American cheese. Each serving contains significant calories and fat due to the deep-frying process and tartar sauce, which includes mayonnaise and pickles, contributing to saturated fat and sodium levels. The shredded lettuce contributes dietary fiber and vitamins, while the hamburger bun adds carbohydrates for energy. You should consider portion control and balance this indulgent sandwich with nutrient-dense foods to align with your dietary needs.
Storage
To preserve the Deep Sea Double's freshness, store leftover fish filets in airtight food storage containers and refrigerate them within two hours of cooking. Maintaining a temperature below 40degF (4degC) helps prevent bacterial growth and keeps the crispy batter from becoming soggy. You should reheat the fish filets in a preheated deep fryer or oven to restore their golden, crunchy texture before assembling your sandwich again.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute cod or haddock filets for the traditional fish used in the sandwich for a milder flavor and flaky texture. Consider swapping American cheese with cheddar or pepper jack for a sharper or spicier taste that complements the fried fish. Instead of tartar sauce, you might use a zesty remoulade or garlic aioli to provide a different creamy tang. Grilling the buns lightly with butter before assembly enhances the sandwich's aroma and adds a subtle crispness.
Allergies
The Deep Sea Double contains common allergens such as fish, wheat (in the batter and bun), dairy (American cheese), and eggs (often present in tartar sauce). Cross-contamination with other allergens like soy or gluten may occur depending on the preparation environment. If you have any allergies, you should verify ingredient lists and preparation methods with Checkers/Rally's before consuming.
Why this recipe?
The Deep Sea Double menu from Checkers/Rally's restaurant is popular for its unique combination of crispy fried seafood and bold, flavorful seasoning that appeals to adventurous eaters. The menu features a generous portion of two seafood items, providing great value for those seeking a satisfying and diverse meal. Your taste buds will enjoy the blend of crunchy textures and zesty sauces that deliver a memorable dining experience. Trying to make a copycat version allows you to replicate this beloved flavor profile at home, saving money and customizing the ingredients to your preference.