Okay, friends, let’s talk about coleslaw. I know, I know, coleslaw can be a bit of a controversial topic. Some people love it, some people… well, let’s just say they’re not huge fans. But this KFC Coleslaw Recipe? This is different. This is the coleslaw that will convert even the staunchest coleslaw skeptic. I’m telling you, it’s *that* good. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet, just like the original. And honestly, I think it might even be better! Forget that mayo-heavy, bland stuff you might be used to. This coleslaw is light, refreshing, and absolutely addictive. Think of it as the coleslaw of your dreams, only you can make it at home, any time you want! This is so much better than regular coleslaw—it will blow your mind!
What is KFC Coleslaw?
So, what exactly *is* KFC Coleslaw? It’s essentially a creamy, shredded cabbage salad, but it’s so much more than that. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures, all working together in perfect harmony. Think of it as a slightly sweet, slightly tangy, and incredibly refreshing side dish that complements everything from fried chicken (obviously!) to burgers and even grilled fish. It’s not just cabbage and mayo; it’s a carefully crafted blend of vegetables, a perfectly balanced dressing, and a touch of magic that makes it utterly irresistible. The name, of course, comes from Kentucky Fried Chicken, where it’s a hugely popular menu item. This recipe is my attempt (a very successful one, if I do say so myself!) to recreate that iconic flavor at home. I think of it as a fresh twist on an old classic!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Let me tell you why I’m so obsessed with this KFC Coleslaw Recipe. First of all, the flavor is out of this world. It’s got that perfect sweetness, balanced by a tangy vinegar kick and a creamy, comforting base. It’s like a party in your mouth, I swear! But even better than the flavor is how incredibly easy it is to make. Seriously, you can whip this up in under 20 minutes, start to finish. No fancy equipment required, just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of elbow grease (or a food processor, if you’re feeling lazy!). And let’s talk about cost-efficiency. Making this at home is *way* cheaper than buying it from KFC, especially if you’re feeding a crowd. Plus, you can control the ingredients and make it exactly to your liking. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. It’s not just a side dish for fried chicken; it’s amazing on pulled pork sandwiches, with grilled salmon, or even just as a light and refreshing snack on its own. I’ve even been known to sneak a spoonful straight from the bowl! And compared to other coleslaw recipes? This one is lighter, brighter, and less heavy on the mayo. It’s just… perfect. You can’t go wrong with this!
How do I make KFC Coleslaw?
Quick Overview
Making this KFC Coleslaw Recipe is honestly a breeze. You’ll start by prepping your veggies – shredding the cabbage and carrots (or using a pre-shredded mix to save time – I won’t judge!). Then, you’ll whisk together the dressing, which is a simple combination of mayo, vinegar, sugar, and a few other key ingredients. Finally, you’ll toss everything together and let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour to let the flavors meld. The best part? No cooking required! This is a super simple, no-fuss recipe that anyone can master. Plus, the chilling time is crucial! Don’t skip it.
Ingredients
For the Coleslaw: What are
* 1 small head of green cabbage, finely shredded (about 6 cups)
* 1/2 cup shredded carrots
* 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
* 1/4 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice added) * 1 cup water.
For the Dressing:
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise (I prefer a good quality brand for the best flavor)
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 2 tablespoons white vinegar
* 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/8 teaspoon Black Pepper
What are the steps to
Step 1: Prep the Cabbage
First, you’ll need to shred your cabbage. You can do this by hand with a sharp knife, or you can use a food processor with a shredding attachment for a faster, easier method. I usually go the food processor route because, let’s be honest, I’m all about saving time! Make sure the cabbage is shredded finely, almost like confetti. I also remove the tougher core of the cabbage before shredding. This helps to prevent a bitter taste.
Step 2: Combine Veggies
In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, and onion. Set aside. Give everything a good toss to make sure it’s evenly distributed. I like to use my hands for this step, but a couple of large spoons will work just fine. If you’re not a fan of onion, you can reduce the amount of cheese in the coleslaw. What is the best way to leave it out of the equation?
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, white vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined and the sugar is completely dissolved. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more sugar if you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, or a little more vinegar if you like it tangier. The key is to find the perfect balance for your taste buds!
Step 4: Add Buttermilk
Stir in the buttermilk. This adds a little extra tang and creaminess. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, just add 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice to 1/4 cup of regular milk. What is the best way to make milk and let it sit for a few minutes? Is it possible to make almond milk creamier?
Step 5: Combine Everything
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss gently to coat. Make sure every piece of cabbage is covered in that delicious dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the coleslaw watery. Just a gentle toss is all you need!
Step 6: Chill Out
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or even better, overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to soften slightly. I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but trust me, the chilling time is crucial for the best flavor and texture. I always do this when I’m making it for a BBQ the next day. Prepping ahead is key!
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Before serving, give the coleslaw another gentle toss. If your mayonnaise looks dry, add a tablespoon or two of it to freshen it up. Serve chilled and enjoy! What is the best side dish for a barbecue? What do you think of my new blog and I can’t wait to hear from you!
What is the best way to serve it?
Okay, let’s talk about what to serve with this amazing KFC Coleslaw Recipe. Obviously, fried chicken is a classic pairing. I mean, it’s right there in the name! But this coleslaw is so versatile, it goes with so much more. For a classic summer barbecue, try serving it alongside grilled burgers, hot dogs, or pulled pork sandwiches. It’s also fantastic with grilled fish or shrimp tacos. My kids love it with mac and cheese! If you’re looking for a lighter meal, try pairing it with a simple grilled chicken salad. And for a potluck or picnic, this coleslaw is always a crowd-pleaser. I’ve even been known to serve it as a side dish for Thanksgiving dinner! It adds a nice refreshing contrast to all the rich, heavy dishes. My family always asks for this coleslaw and Potato Salad, no matter what the main dish is. It’s tradition!
How do I perfect my KFC Coleslaw?
Alright, friends, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Here are my top tips for making the *perfect* KFC Coleslaw Recipe, every single time. First, cabbage prep is key. Make sure you shred the cabbage finely, almost like confetti. This will give it that signature KFC texture. If you’re using a food processor, be careful not to over-process it, or you’ll end up with mushy coleslaw. And don’t forget to remove the tough core of the cabbage, as it can be bitter. For the dressing, use a good quality mayonnaise. It really makes a difference in the overall flavor. I prefer a mayonnaise that’s slightly tangy and not too sweet. And speaking of sweetness, don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. Some people prefer a sweeter coleslaw, while others like it more tangy. Start with the amount listed in the recipe and then add more to taste. If you want to add a little extra flavor, try adding a pinch of celery seed or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. For the best results, make the coleslaw at least 2 hours ahead of time, or even better, overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to soften slightly. I never skip this! Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables. You can add shredded red cabbage, bell peppers, or even chopped apples for a little extra crunch and flavor. I tested this with finely diced cucumbers and it was amazing!
What are the Storing and Reheating Tips?
So, you’ve made a big batch of KFC Coleslaw Recipe and you have leftovers? No problem! This coleslaw stores beautifully in the refrigerator. To store, transfer the coleslaw to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-5 days. The coleslaw will continue to soften over time, so it’s best to eat it within a few days for the best texture. I don’t recommend freezing this coleslaw, as the mayonnaise will separate and the vegetables will become mushy. When you’re ready to serve the coleslaw, give it a good stir. If it looks a little dry, you can add a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise to freshen it up. I don’t usually need to, but sometimes the dressing gets soaked up overnight. I generally make the dressing right before serving for the best quality!
What are the most frequently asked questions on
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, friends! My absolute favorite KFC Coleslaw Recipe that tastes just like the real deal (or maybe even better!). I truly believe this is the perfect coleslaw recipe, and I can’t wait for you to try it and see for yourself. It’s easy, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it alongside fried chicken, burgers, or grilled fish, this coleslaw is sure to be a hit. And if you’re looking for more Delicious Side Dish recipes, be sure to check out my other posts! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Let me know in the comments if you give this recipe a try! I am sure it will be a success, I’ve made this recipe a hundred times!
KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 cups Shredded Cabbage Use a mix of green and red cabbage for color.
- 1 cup Shredded Carrots
- 0.5 cup Mayonnaise
- 0.25 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.
