KFC Copycat Coleslaw Recipe
Introduction
This KFC Copycat Coleslaw recipe brings the classic, creamy side dish right to your kitchen. With finely chopped cabbage and a tangy, sweet dressing, it’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or simply as a refreshing salad.
Ingredients
- ½ head cabbage, finely chopped (about 4 cups)
- ½ medium carrot, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk
- 4¼ teaspoons white vinegar
- 1½ tablespoons onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 4 teaspoons sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅜ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Using a food processor, pulse the cabbage until finely chopped, working in small batches to avoid pulverizing it. Repeat the process with the carrot. Combine both in a medium bowl.
- Step 2: In a separate small bowl, whisk together buttermilk, white vinegar, chopped onion, whole milk, mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Step 3: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture and stir well. Don’t worry if it looks a bit dry initially; the cabbage will release moisture as it sits.
- Step 4: Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly. Stir again before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a crunchier texture, chop the cabbage and carrot by hand rather than using a food processor.
- Adjust sugar and lemon juice to taste for a sweeter or tangier slaw.
- Add a teaspoon of celery seed for a traditional flavor boost.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter, tangier dressing.
Storage
Store the coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving, as the dressing may separate slightly. This coleslaw is best enjoyed fresh but will keep well for a couple of days.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, preparing it a few hours or even the day before allows the flavors to develop fully. Just be sure to stir before serving.
Is it possible to use regular vinegar instead of white vinegar?
White vinegar is preferred for its clean taste, but you can substitute apple cider vinegar in equal amounts. Avoid stronger flavored vinegars that might overpower the dressing.
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KFC Copycat Coleslaw Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This KFC Copycat Coleslaw recipe delivers the classic creamy, tangy coleslaw with finely chopped cabbage and carrots, tossed in a smooth dressing made with buttermilk, mayonnaise, and a balance of vinegar, lemon juice, and sugar. Perfect as a side dish to complement fried chicken or other comfort foods, it’s easy to prepare and refrigerated for the flavors to meld beautifully.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- ½ head cabbage, finely chopped (about 4 cups)
- ½ medium carrot, finely chopped
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk
- 4¼ teaspoons white vinegar
- 1½ tablespoons onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 4 teaspoons sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅜ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Chop Vegetables: Using a food processor, pulse the cabbage until finely chopped into small squares, being careful not to pulverize it. Repeat the process with the carrot. Transfer the chopped cabbage and carrot into a medium bowl.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, combine buttermilk, white vinegar, finely chopped onion, whole milk, mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine and Mix: Pour the dressing over the chopped cabbage and carrot. Stir well to ensure the dressing coats all the vegetables evenly. The mixture may appear dry initially, but the moisture will be drawn out from the cabbage shortly.
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to release moisture, resulting in the classic creamy coleslaw texture.
- Serve: Before serving, give the coleslaw a good stir to distribute the dressing evenly. Serve chilled as a side dish.
Notes
- For best texture, pulse the cabbage and carrot just until finely chopped to avoid mushiness.
- Refrigerating for longer than 30 minutes can enhance flavor but avoid leaving it more than 24 hours to keep crunchiness.
- Use whole milk and buttermilk to achieve the authentic creamy dressing taste.
- Adjust sugar and lemon juice to taste for desired sweetness and tanginess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: KFC coleslaw copycat, coleslaw recipe, creamy coleslaw, homemade coleslaw, side dish, American coleslaw
