KFC's Coleslaw features finely shredded cabbage and carrots blended with a creamy, tangy dressing, delivering a refreshing and crisp side dish with a smooth, slightly sweet flavor.
Equipments
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
- Vegetable peeler
- Box grater or food processor
- Small bowl (for dressing, optional)
- Serving spoon
Ingredients
- 1 medium head green cabbage
- 2 medium carrots
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
When preparing your coleslaw, make sure to finely shred the green cabbage and carrots using a box grater or food processor to achieve the signature crisp texture. Use a combination of whole milk and buttermilk in the dressing to replicate the creamy, tangy flavor profile. Measure your ingredients carefully, especially the sugar and lemon juice, to balance the sweetness and acidity perfectly. Finely chopped onion adds a subtle sharpness that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the creaminess. This coleslaw inspired by KFC's copycat menu offers a refreshing, smooth side dish with a slightly sweet and tangy taste you'll enjoy alongside your meal.
Instructions
- Remove outer leaves from cabbage and core it.
- Finely shred cabbage using a chef’s knife, box grater, or food processor.
- Peel carrots with vegetable peeler.
- Grate carrots using box grater or food processor.
- Finely chop the onion.
- Place shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and chopped onion into large mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl, add mayonnaise, whole milk, buttermilk, granulated sugar, lemon juice, white vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
- Whisk dressing ingredients together until smooth and well combined.
- Pour dressing over vegetables in large bowl.
- Mix thoroughly with serving spoon to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight).
- Stir once more before serving.
Substitution
KFC's Coleslaw can be easily customized by substituting buttermilk with plain yogurt or sour cream to maintain the creamy texture while adjusting tanginess. If you don't have white vinegar, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice alone can provide the necessary acidity for the dressing. Shredding the cabbage and carrots with a box grater or food processor saves time and ensures a consistent texture, but be careful not to over-process, which may lead to sogginess. Using finely chopped onion adds a subtle bite; however, you can soak the onion in cold water for 10 minutes if you prefer a milder flavor. Your choice of sugar impacts sweetness, so feel free to use brown sugar or honey as a natural alternative to granulated sugar.
Tips
Ensure the cabbage and carrots are finely shredded or grated to achieve the signature crisp texture of KFC's Coleslaw. Use a sharp chef's knife or food processor to avoid bruising the vegetables, which can affect the flavor and appearance. When mixing the dressing, whisk thoroughly to blend mayonnaise, buttermilk, and spices into a smooth, creamy consistency. Your coleslaw benefits greatly from refrigeration for a minimum of 2 hours, allowing flavors to meld and intensify before serving.
Nutritions
KFC's Coleslaw provides a good source of dietary fiber from finely shredded cabbage and carrots, promoting digestive health. The creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, whole milk, and buttermilk adds healthy fats and calcium, essential for bone strength. Sugar content contributes to the slightly sweet flavor, so be mindful of your sugar intake if you are managing blood sugar levels. Your coleslaw offers a refreshing balance of crunchy vegetables and creamy dressing, making it a nutritious side option when enjoyed in moderation.
Storage
Store your KFC-style coleslaw in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent odor absorption. Keep it refrigerated at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 3 to 5 days for optimal taste and texture. Avoid freezing, as the dressing and vegetables may separate and lose their crispness.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute red cabbage or add finely chopped green onions for extra color and mild sharpness. Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise to create a lighter, tangier dressing. Experiment with apple cider vinegar in place of white vinegar to introduce a subtle fruity acidity. For quicker preparation, pulse the vegetables in a food processor rather than shredding by hand.
Allergies
KFC's Coleslaw contains dairy products such as whole milk, buttermilk, and mayonnaise, which may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to milk proteins or lactose intolerance. The finely chopped onion could trigger allergies or sensitivities in those prone to allium family reactions. If you have any known allergies to these ingredients, it's essential to avoid this dish to prevent adverse effects.
Why this recipe?
KFC's Coleslaw is favored for its creamy, tangy dressing perfectly balanced with crisp, finely shredded cabbage and carrots, offering a refreshing contrast to the crispy fried chicken. Its consistent texture and flavor profile have made it a staple side dish that complements various meals. Replicating this recipe allows you to enjoy a beloved classic at home, ensuring freshness while tailoring ingredients to your taste or dietary preferences. Making the copycat version is worth it for its simple preparation and the authentic experience it brings to your dining table.