KFC coleslaw is an iconic side dish that has become almost as famous as the fried chicken it accompanies. It is known for its creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor. That’s why I’m beyond excited to share this recipe with you! It’s one of those dishes that feels like a comforting hug in a bowl and just hits all the right notes.
This recipe aims to replicate the classic taste of the original coleslaw so you can enjoy it in the comfort of your own home. For me, making KFC coleslaw at home was a delightful journey into recreating one of my favorite restaurant sides. It was more than just cooking—it was a journey back to fond memories.
The anticipation built as I gathered the ingredients, reminiscing about those family gatherings and casual outings where KFC coleslaw was always a hit. My favorite thing about this recipe is that making coleslaw from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and customize the dish to your liking, whether you’re aiming for a healthier version or need to accommodate dietary restrictions.
This amazing Coleslaw always stands out because of its perfectly balanced, sweet, tangy dressing, finely chopped vegetables, and consistent flavor. It combines simple ingredients to create a refreshing and addictive side dish that perfectly complements savory meals. In this detailed guide, I will walk you through each step of the process, from gathering the necessary equipment to storing leftovers, ensuring a delightful journey of making the recipe.
Equipments Required
- Cutting Board: I prefer a sturdy cutting board as it is essential for chopping vegetables efficiently.
- Sharp Knife: A good quality chef’s knife ensures precise and safe cutting.
- Large Mixing Bowl: I use a large mixing bowl to combine all the coleslaw ingredients.
- Small Mixing Bowl: I recommend using a small mixing bowl as it is useful for mixing the dressing ingredients.
- Whisk: I use a whisk to blend the ingredients together, but you can also use a spoon or a fork to mix the dressing ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: I suggest using measuring cups and spoons, as they ensure accurate measurements for the perfect balance of flavors.
- Spatula or Large Spoon: For thorough mixing of the coleslaw ingredients.
- Grater or Food Processor: I recommend using a grater or a food processor, as they make quick work of shredding carrots and finely chopping cabbage.
KFC Coleslaw Ingredients and Substitutions
Note: The ingredients mentioned in this section make ten individual portions of KFC Coleslaw. You can always change and adjust the quantities of the ingredients according to your needs for the number of servings you want to make.
- 8 Cups Finely Chopped Cabbage, about one head: I like to mix green and red cabbage for a colorful twist. Sometimes, I substitute with Napa cabbage for a milder flavor.
- 1/4 Cup Shredded Carrot, one medium carrot: I suggest using a pre-shredded carrot mix when you’re short on time. Also, it’s very convenient. You can also add finely chopped red or yellow bell peppers for a colorful and flavorful coleslaw.
- 2 Tablespoons Minced Onion: I sometimes use green onions or shallots for a milder flavor. When I want a stronger onion flavor, I use red onion.
- 1/2 Cup Mayonnaise: When I don’t have mayonnaise, I prefer adding Greek yogurt, as it offers a creamy texture and tangy flavor. I also sometimes add sour cream in place of mayonnaise, as it provides a similar consistency with some tang.
- 1/3 Cup Granulated Sugar: I use a sugar substitute like stevia, monk fruit sweetener, or erythritol.
- 1/4 Cup Milk: I prefer using plant-based milk substitutes like soy milk, almond milk, or coconut milk, which work equally well.
- 1/4 Cup Buttermilk: I’ve found that plain yogurt, kefir, or a milk alternative like almond milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice adds the perfect tanginess.
- 2 1/2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice: Lime juice is my first choice since it provides a similar tangy flavor. Apple cider vinegar works well for its mild acidity and slight sweetness.
- 1 1/2 Tablespoons White Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar can be used for a slightly different flavor profile.
- 1/2 Teaspoon Salt: For a subtle flavor difference, I suggest using sea salt or kosher salt instead of table salt.
- 1/8 Teaspoon Pepper: I suggest using white pepper for a milder heat, while freshly ground black pepper gives a more pronounced flavor.
Preparation And Cooking Time
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 15 Minutes | 5 Minutes | 20 Minutes |
How to Make KFC Coleslaw At Home
Step 1
Take buttermilk and some milk in two separate bowls.
Step 2
Add the milk to the buttermilk and have the mayonnaise ready to add.
Step 3
Add the mayonnaise to the dairy mixture, preparing to season with salt.
Step 4
Add a little vinegar to the mixture.
Step 5
Then sprinkle in some salt and pepper.
Step 6
Mix all the ingredients well until smooth and combined.
Step 7
Now, take the cabbage and use a sharp knife to chop it finely.
Step 8
Add the cabbage to the bowl and then peel and chop the carrots.
Step 9
Add the chopped carrots to the bowl, peel, and finely chop an onion.
Step 10
Add the onion to the bowl and mix everything together with a large spoon or spatula. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Your KFC Coleslaw is ready to serve.
Expert Tips That I Recommend
- Chill Before Serving: I always let the coleslaw chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a more delicious coleslaw.
- Adding Fruits: I love adding finely chopped or shredded apples or even some pineapple for a sweet and crisp addition. Sometimes, I throw in dried cranberries for their chewy texture and sweet-tart flavor, which adds a delightful contrast.
- Celery Seeds: Adding a small amount of celery seeds gives the coleslaw dressing a subtle but distinctive flavor that is wonderfully complementary.
- Mustard: A teaspoon of Dijon mustard is my secret ingredient for adding tangy depth to the dressing. It gives a nice kick that perfectly balances out the sweetness.
- Enhance Texture with Nuts and Seeds: Adding nuts or seeds to my coleslaw really boosts its texture and flavor. I love how nuts add a satisfying crunch and a rich, nutty taste, while seeds give a nice, subtle crunch and extra nutrition. I usually toss them in right before serving to keep them crispy and fresh.
- Let The Dressing Sit for Enhanced Flavor: I mix the dressing and let it sit for 30 minutes before adding it to the veggies. This way, the flavors have time to meld and develop, making the coleslaw more balanced and flavorful.
FAQs About KFC Coleslaw
Nutritional Information Per Serving
KFC Coleslaw, while tasty, is not particularly healthy due to its high calorie, fat, and sugar content from the mayonnaise-based dressing. Hence, it’s best to consume KFC Coleslaw in moderation.
Here, I have mentioned a detailed nutritional breakdown of KFC coleslaw:
| Calories | 277 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 19 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 13 g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 5 g |
| Trans Fat | 0.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 15 mg |
| Sodium | 491 mg |
| Potassium | 63 mg |
| Fiber | 0.3 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
| Vitamin A | 70 IU |
| Vitamin C | 5 mg |
| Calcium | 42 mg |
| Iron | 0.1 mg |
KFC coleslaw is versatile and can be adapted to fit various diets. It works for vegetarians and those on gluten-free diets. By using full-fat mayonnaise and low-carb sweeteners, it can also fit into a low-carb or keto diet. However, traditional KFC coleslaw isn’t suitable for vegan, dairy-free, low-fat, or low-sugar diets as it contains milk and sugar. To adapt them, various modifications can be made to certain ingredients and by using alternatives. These modifications can make KFC coleslaw inclusive.
Recipe Variations For Different Diets
- Vegan Diet: To make a vegan version of KFC coleslaw, I suggest using vegan mayonnaise and substituting buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar. I also recommend ensuring all other ingredients are plant-based to maintain a delicious vegan coleslaw.
- Low-Fat Diet: I advise using low-fat or light mayonnaise and buttermilk for a lighter option. Sometimes, I reduce the amount of mayonnaise and increase the buttermilk for a dressing that’s lower in fat but still creamy and flavorful.
- Low-Sugar Diet: To reduce sugar, I reduce the amount used or substitute with a sugar alternative like stevia, monk fruit sweetener, or erythritol. I taste the dressing and adjust the sweetness to suit my preference.
- Keto Diet: I stick with full-fat mayonnaise for a keto-friendly version and replace sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia. I also make sure to use vegetables that are low in carbs to keep the dish keto-compliant.
- Dairy-Free Diet: When making a dairy-free version, I substitute buttermilk and regular milk with dairy-free alternatives like almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar for that tangy flavor. This ensures a creamy and flavorful dairy-free coleslaw.
Storing This Recipe
- Refrigerator: I recommend storing the coleslaw in an airtight container before transferring it to the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for up to 3 days there. Coleslaw is best served cold. If you need to refresh it after storing it, I recommend stirring in a little extra dressing before serving. Always taste and adjust the seasoning if needed before serving leftovers.
- Freezer: Freezing coleslaw is not recommended because the texture of the cabbage and carrots can become mushy when thawed, and the dressing may separate.
What To Serve With This Recipe
KFC coleslaw pairs well with various dishes, making it a versatile side. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Classic Side with Crispy Fried Chicken: I often serve crispy fried chicken with my creamy coleslaw—it’s the perfect balance to the savory, crunchy chicken.
- Complement to Barbecued Meats: When I barbecue, I love how coleslaw complements my ribs, pulled pork, or brisket. Its cool, crisp texture contrasts beautifully with the rich, smoky flavors.
- Enhance Your Burgers: I add a scoop of coleslaw to my burger, which gives it extra crunch and flavor, especially with pulled pork or chicken burgers.
- Perfect Sandwich Companion: Alongside my sandwiches, especially deli-style or pulled pork, the tangy coleslaw cuts through the meat’s richness.
- Refreshing Side for Grilled Fish: For grilled fish or seafood, my coleslaw is a refreshing side dish. Its light, tangy flavor complements the delicate taste of the fish.
- Pairing with Grilled Meats and Vegetables: Grilled meats and vegetables get a flavor boost with a side of coleslaw. The crunchiness and tanginess complement the hearty flavors of grilled steaks, chops, and veggies.
- Coleslaw as a Topping or Dip: Use coleslaw as a topping for tacos, hot dogs, or as a dip for chicken tenders. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor elevate these dishes to a new level of deliciousness.
Printable Version
KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 cups Finely Chopped Cabbage about one head
- 1/4 cup Shredded Carrot 1 medium carrot
- 2 tablespoons Minced Onion
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1/4 cup Milk
- 1/4 cup Buttermilk
- 2 1/2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
- 1 1/2 tablespoons White Vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/8 teaspoon Pepper
Equipment
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Small Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups And Spoons
- Spatula or Large Spoon
- Grater or Food Processor
Instructions
- Take buttermilk and some milk in two separate bowls.
- Add the milk to the buttermilk and have the mayonnaise ready to add.
- Add the mayonnaise to the dairy mixture, preparing to season with salt.
- Add a little vinegar to the mixture.
- Then sprinkle in some salt and pepper.
- Mix all the ingredients well until smooth and combined.
- Now, take the cabbage and use a sharp knife to chop it finely.
- Add the cabbage to the bowl and then peel and chop the carrots.
- Add the chopped carrots to the bowl, peel, and finely chop an onion.
- Add the onion to the bowl and mix everything together with a large spoon or spatula. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Your KFC Coleslaw is ready to serve.
Nutrition
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Conclusion
Creating KFC coleslaw at home is a simple and rewarding endeavor. With fresh ingredients and the right preparation, you can enjoy this classic side dish any time you want. Whether served with fried chicken, barbecue, or as part of a picnic spread, it will surely be a hit.
Making your own coleslaw also allows you to customize it to your taste, whether you prefer it sweeter, tangier, or lighter. Try the variations to suit your dietary needs and enjoy the fresh, tangy flavors.
I hope you enjoy making and savoring this KFC coleslaw recipe as much as I do. Now it’s your turn! Try this recipe, and let me know how it turned out. Did you make any adjustments or add your own twist? Share your experiences and tips with me. I’d love to hear how you’ve made this recipe your own. Happy cooking!
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