Famous KFC Coleslaw Classic
When it comes to comfort food, few side dishes can rival the iconic taste of KFC coleslaw. This beloved classic is known for its creamy texture and refreshing crunch, making it the perfect accompaniment to fried chicken, barbecues, or even as a light lunch on its own. With a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess, each bite of this coleslaw evokes a blend of nostalgia and satisfaction. The crispness of the finely chopped cabbage, paired with the subtle bite of onion and the sweetness of carrots, creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Ideal for picnics, summer gatherings, or simply as a staple in your meal rotation, making this coleslaw at home is easier than you think and guarantees freshness you won’t find in store-bought versions. Let’s dive into the recipe that captures that renowned taste!

Ingredients
- 120 ml mayonnaise: The base of the dressing, providing creaminess and richness.
- 65 g granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tangy flavors.
- 60 ml whole milk: Contributes to a smooth texture in the dressing.
- 60 ml buttermilk: Adds a slight tang and creaminess, enhancing flavor.
- 38 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice: Introduces brightness and acidity to the coleslaw.
- 22 ml distilled white vinegar: Enhances the tangy profile of the dressing.
- 3 g fine sea salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing flavors together.
- 0.5 g ground black pepper: Adds a touch of spice, enhancing the overall taste.
- 800 g finely chopped green cabbage: The star ingredient, providing crunch and bulk.
- 30 g shredded carrot: Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
- 20 g minced white onion: Offers a subtle sharpness and depth of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prepare your vegetables: Finely chop the green cabbage and carrots to a uniform, rice-sized consistency. This will ensure an authentic texture in your coleslaw. Mince the white onion carefully.
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Make the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together the mayonnaise, granulated sugar, whole milk, buttermilk, freshly squeezed lemon juice, distilled white vinegar, fine sea salt, and ground black pepper until the mixture is smooth and fully emulsified.
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Combine ingredients: Add the chopped cabbage, shredded carrot, and minced onion to the dressing in the bowl. Mix thoroughly until all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
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Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for a minimum of 2 hours. For optimal taste and texture, letting it rest overnight is highly recommended to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (chilling time not counted)
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Servings: Approximately 8 servings
- Calories: About 150 calories per serving
Tips, Storage & Variations
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Practical Tips: For the freshest taste, use freshly shredded cabbage and carrots rather than pre-packaged mixes. This will enhance both flavor and texture.
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Storage Advice: Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best enjoyed within 3-5 days.
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Freezing Advice: Coleslaw does not freeze well due to the high water content of the vegetables, which can become mushy upon thawing.
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Flavor Variations: Consider adding chopped apples or raisins for a bit of sweetness. You could also incorporate a dash of paprika or celery seeds for an extra flavor dimension.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I make KFC coleslaw without buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk and add a splash of vinegar for acidity. -
How long can I keep coleslaw in the fridge?
Coleslaw can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. -
Can I use a different type of cabbage?
While green cabbage is traditional, you can use purple cabbage for a colorful twist. -
Is it necessary to let coleslaw rest before serving?
Yes, resting allows the flavors to blend. Refrigerating for at least 2 hours is recommended. -
What can I serve with coleslaw?
It’s great with fried chicken, pulled pork, or as a light, fresh side for sandwiches. -
Can I make this coleslaw vegan?
Yes, you can use vegan mayonnaise and non-dairy milk to make a vegan version.
People Also Ask
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What is KFC coleslaw made of?
KFC coleslaw is primarily made of green cabbage, carrots, onions, and a creamy dressing. -
How does KFC make their coleslaw taste so good?
The balance of sweet and tangy flavors in the dressing, along with freshly chopped vegetables, creates its beloved taste. -
Can I add other vegetables to coleslaw?
Yes, feel free to add bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch. -
How do I cut cabbage for coleslaw?
Cut it into quarters, remove the core, and finely chop it into small pieces. -
What type of mayonnaise is best for coleslaw?
A good quality, classic mayonnaise works best for a creamy texture. -
Is KFC coleslaw gluten-free?
Yes, the main ingredients used in KFC coleslaw are generally gluten-free.
Conclusion
Now that you have this delicious recipe for KFC coleslaw, it’s time to give it a try in your kitchen! The crisp textures and flavorful dressing make this dish a wonderful addition to any meal. Don’t forget to share your results with friends and family. For more variations on this classic dish, check out this KFC Coleslaw Recipe or another delicious take on it here: Easy KFC Coleslaw Recipe Copycat. Happy cooking!
PrintFamous KFC Coleslaw Classic
An iconic side dish with a creamy texture and refreshing crunch, perfect for any meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 140 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 120 ml mayonnaise
- 65 g granulated sugar
- 60 ml whole milk
- 60 ml buttermilk
- 38 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 22 ml distilled white vinegar
- 3 g fine sea salt
- 0.5 g ground black pepper
- 800 g finely chopped green cabbage
- 30 g shredded carrot
- 20 g minced white onion
Instructions
- Prepare your vegetables: Finely chop the green cabbage and carrots to a uniform, rice-sized consistency. This will ensure an authentic texture in your coleslaw. Mince the white onion carefully.
- Make the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together the mayonnaise, granulated sugar, whole milk, buttermilk, freshly squeezed lemon juice, distilled white vinegar, fine sea salt, and ground black pepper until the mixture is smooth and fully emulsified.
- Combine ingredients: Add the chopped cabbage, shredded carrot, and minced onion to the dressing in the bowl. Mix thoroughly until all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for a minimum of 2 hours. For optimal taste and texture, letting it rest overnight is highly recommended to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
For the freshest taste, use freshly shredded cabbage and carrots rather than pre-packaged mixes. Store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 3-5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg