If you love the creamy, tangy, and crunchy coleslaw that comes with Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), you’re in for a treat! Making KFC-style coleslaw at home is easier than you think, and it tastes just like the original. This classic side dish perfectly complements fried chicken with its refreshing crunch and balanced flavors. Let’s dive into how you can make this iconic coleslaw yourself.
What Makes KFC Coleslaw So Special?
KFC coleslaw is famous for its finely chopped cabbage and carrots, mixed with a creamy, slightly sweet, and tangy dressing. The secret lies in the texture—the cabbage and carrots are chopped very finely, almost rice-sized, which gives it a smooth yet crunchy bite. The dressing combines mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, and a touch of lemon juice, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity that brightens the dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make authentic-tasting KFC coleslaw, gather these ingredients:
– 8 cups finely chopped cabbage (about 1 medium head)
– 1/4 cup finely shredded carrot (about 1 carrot)
– 2 tablespoons very finely minced yellow onion
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 2 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 1/2 tablespoons white or apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
These ingredients combine to create the perfect creamy and tangy dressing that coats the finely chopped veggies.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Finely Chop the Vegetables
The key to that classic KFC texture is chopping the cabbage, carrots, and onions very finely—almost to the size of rice grains. You can use a sharp knife or a food processor with a shredding attachment. The finer, the better, as this ensures the dressing clings well to every bit of vegetable.
2. Make the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, whole milk, buttermilk, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. This mixture is the heart of the coleslaw’s flavor, balancing sweetness with acidity and creaminess.
3. Combine and Toss
Add the finely chopped cabbage, carrots, and onion to the dressing. Toss thoroughly to coat all the vegetables evenly. This step ensures every bite has that signature creamy crunch.
4. Chill and Let Flavors Meld
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to blend and the cabbage to soften slightly, enhancing the overall taste and texture.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Give the coleslaw a good stir before serving. It pairs wonderfully with fried chicken, barbecue, or any meal that needs a fresh, creamy side.
Tips for Perfect KFC-Style Coleslaw
– Use fresh vegetables: Fresh cabbage and carrots make a big difference in flavor and crunch.
– Chop finely: Don’t rush this step; the finer the chop, the closer you get to the authentic texture.
– Let it rest: Refrigeration time is crucial for melding flavors and softening the cabbage just right.
– Adjust sweetness and acidity: Feel free to tweak the sugar or lemon juice to suit your taste.
Variations You Can Try
– Add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra depth.
– Mix in a little celery seed for a subtle crunch and flavor boost.
– Use a blend of red and green cabbage to add color and a slight variation in taste.
Why Make KFC Coleslaw at Home?
Making KFC coleslaw at home means you can enjoy this classic side dish anytime without a trip to the restaurant. It’s fresher, customizable, and a great way to impress guests at your next barbecue or family dinner. Plus, you control the ingredients, so you can make it healthier or richer depending on your preference.
This homemade version is not only delicious but also budget-friendly and simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can recreate that iconic flavor right in your kitchen.
Enjoy your homemade Kentucky Fried Chicken coleslaw as a perfect companion to your favorite fried chicken or as a refreshing salad on its own. It’s creamy, crunchy, and bursting with flavor—just like the original!
Making KFC coleslaw at home is a fun and rewarding way to bring a taste of the famous fast-food classic to your dining table. Give it a try, and you’ll never look at coleslaw the same way again.