1. Introduction
KFC’s coleslaw is iconic—crisp, creamy, and slightly tangy with just the right amount of sweetness. If you’ve ever craved that perfect coleslaw but didn’t want to run to the nearest KFC, this Amazing Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe is for you. With simple ingredients and a quick preparation time, you can recreate this beloved side dish in your own kitchen, making it an ideal accompaniment for any meal.
2. Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Copycat KFC Coleslaw:
- 8 cups of finely shredded cabbage (about 1 medium head)
- 1/4 cup of finely shredded carrots
- 2 tablespoons of minced onion
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1/4 cup of buttermilk
- 1/3 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of white vinegar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper
3. Preparing the Cabbage and Carrots
Start by shredding the cabbage and carrots. For the most authentic texture, use a food processor or box grater to finely shred the cabbage and carrots. The cabbage should be cut into very small pieces, similar to what you find in KFC’s version. Once shredded, combine them in a large mixing bowl.
4. Mincing the Onion
Next, finely mince the onion. You want the pieces to be very small, as the onion should blend smoothly into the coleslaw without being overpowering. Add the minced onion to the bowl with the shredded cabbage and carrots. The onion adds a subtle bite that balances the sweetness of the dressing.
5. Making the Dressing
In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, milk, buttermilk, granulated sugar, white vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar is dissolved and the dressing is smooth and creamy. This dressing is what gives the coleslaw its signature KFC flavor—tangy, sweet, and perfectly creamy.
6. Combining the Vegetables and Dressing
Pour the dressing over the cabbage, carrots, and onion mixture. Use a spatula or large spoon to thoroughly mix everything together. Make sure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. The mixture should be creamy but not soupy, with just enough dressing to bind the vegetables together.
7. Chilling the Coleslaw
For the best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together, and the cabbage to soften slightly, creating the perfect texture reminiscent of KFC’s coleslaw.
8. Adjusting the Seasoning
After the coleslaw has chilled, taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may want to add a little more salt or pepper depending on your preference. The sweetness and tanginess should be well-balanced, with no one flavor overpowering the others.
9. Serving Suggestions
This Amazing Copycat KFC Coleslaw pairs perfectly with fried chicken, grilled meats, or sandwiches. It’s also great as a topping for pulled pork or BBQ sandwiches. Serve it cold, straight from the refrigerator, for the most refreshing taste. It’s an ideal side dish for picnics, potlucks, or family dinners.
10. Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The coleslaw will keep well for up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first two days, as the cabbage can become too soft if stored for too long.
11. Making Ahead
This coleslaw can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. In fact, making it a day ahead is recommended to allow the flavors to fully develop. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
12. Tips for Success
For the most authentic flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and a high-quality mayonnaise. Also, be sure to finely shred the cabbage and carrots to achieve the classic KFC texture. If you prefer a slightly sweeter coleslaw, you can add an extra tablespoon of sugar to the dressing.
13. Recipe Variations
While this recipe is a spot-on copycat of KFC’s coleslaw, you can customize it to your liking. Add a little celery seed for an extra pop of flavor, or try using a combination of green and red cabbage for a more colorful dish. You can also experiment with different types of vinegar if you prefer a milder or more robust tang.
14. Why This Recipe Works
The key to this recipe’s success is the balance of flavors in the dressing. The combination of mayonnaise, buttermilk, and lemon juice creates a creamy, tangy base, while the sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness. Finely shredding the vegetables ensures the perfect texture, allowing the dressing to coat every bite evenly.
15. Conclusion
This Amazing Copycat KFC Coleslaw Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves the classic side dish. With its crisp, finely shredded vegetables and creamy, tangy-sweet dressing, it’s just like the original—and perhaps even better because it’s homemade. Whether you’re serving it at a casual barbecue or a holiday feast, this coleslaw is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the satisfaction of recreating this beloved dish in your own kitchen!
