Hello, fellow food lovers! Are you ready to recreate the iconic KFC coleslaw at home? This sweet and tangy side dish is a staple at family dinners, BBQs, and potlucks. Whether you’re a fan of KFC or just love a good coleslaw, this recipe will bring that restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen.
Introduction
Coleslaw is a dish with deep cultural roots, often linked to Southern cooking but loved worldwide for its creamy, tangy crunch. While every family has its take on coleslaw, the KFC coleslaw is unique. Its finely chopped cabbage and the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity make it irresistible. Personally, I love whipping up a batch of this coleslaw when I’m craving something comforting yet light. What makes this version special is the buttermilk, which adds a rich depth of flavor, and the perfect ratio of sugar and vinegar for that signature tang.
Ingredients to Prepare This Comforting KFC Coleslaw Recipe
To prepare this comforting KFC coleslaw recipe, you’ll need:
- 8 cups finely chopped cabbage (about 1 medium head)
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 2 tablespoons finely minced onion
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
Feel free to make some adjustments based on your preferences. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute plant-based milk and yogurt for the milk and buttermilk. Just note that this will slightly change the flavor.
How to Make KFC Coleslaw
Follow these steps to create your own delicious KFC-style coleslaw:
- Prep the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped cabbage, shredded carrots, and minced onion. Make sure the cabbage and carrots are chopped finely, almost like the original KFC texture.
- Mix the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, milk, buttermilk, white vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Everything: Pour the creamy dressing over the cabbage mixture and stir until everything is well coated. Ensure the dressing is evenly distributed throughout the coleslaw for the best flavor.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld together. Stir again before serving, and you’re ready to enjoy your homemade KFC-style coleslaw!
Helpful Tips for the Perfect KFC Coleslaw
- Finely chop the cabbage: The texture is key to nailing the KFC coleslaw recipe. Use a sharp knife or a food processor to finely chop the cabbage and carrots to ensure a consistent, smooth crunch.
- Adjust the sweetness: Depending on your personal taste, you can add more or less sugar. Some prefer a tangier coleslaw, while others love a hint of sweetness.
- Make it ahead of time: Coleslaw tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to blend. If you’re preparing for a party, making this recipe ahead of time will save you some stress and ensure the best flavor.
Cooking Tips to Elevate Your KFC Coleslaw
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cabbage and carrots will give your coleslaw a brighter taste and a more satisfying crunch. Avoid pre-packaged coleslaw mix if possible.
- The buttermilk trick: If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make your own by mixing regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
This KFC coleslaw pairs wonderfully with fried chicken, grilled meats, or a simple sandwich. For a light summer meal, serve it with some BBQ ribs and cornbread. You can even use it as a topping for pulled pork sandwiches or fish tacos for a zesty crunch.
Nutritional Information
KFC coleslaw may be creamy, but it’s also packed with fresh vegetables, offering some essential vitamins. Here’s a quick rundown of the nutritional benefits:
Cabbage is rich in vitamin C and fiber, which support the immune system and digestion. Carrots add a dose of beta-carotene and vitamin A, essential for eye health. While the mayonnaise contributes to the fat content, opting for a low-fat version can help reduce the overall calorie count without compromising flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 150
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Potassium: 150mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 10g
- Vitamin A: 10% DV
- Vitamin C: 40% DV
- Calcium: 4% DV
- Iron: 2% DV
This coleslaw is a relatively low-calorie side dish that still provides a satisfying flavor. It’s a great option for those looking for a fresh, tangy complement to their main dish.
Storage and Leftovers
To keep your coleslaw fresh:
- Refrigerate: Store your coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes, but try to consume it within this time frame for optimal freshness.
- Reheat: Coleslaw is best served cold, so no need to reheat. However, if you’re planning to serve it at a later time, give it a quick stir to redistribute the dressing before serving.
If you have leftover coleslaw, consider using it in a new dish! It’s fantastic as a crunchy topping for sandwiches, wraps, or even tacos.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this coleslaw dairy-free?
Yes! To make a dairy-free version, substitute plant-based milk and yogurt for the milk and buttermilk. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
2. How long can I store this coleslaw?
You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
3. Can I use a food processor to chop the cabbage and carrots?
Absolutely! A food processor will give you the fine, even texture that resembles the KFC coleslaw.
4. Can I make this coleslaw in advance?
Yes, making the coleslaw the night before will enhance the flavors. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
5. How can I reduce the sweetness of this recipe?
If you prefer a tangier coleslaw, reduce the sugar or add an extra splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
Related Recipes
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy this homemade KFC coleslaw recipe as much as I do! It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing side dish that pairs perfectly with a wide variety of meals. If you try it, let me know how it turns out and feel free to share any tweaks or additions you make. Happy cooking!