Coleslaw is a quintessential side dish that complements a variety of meals, from barbecues to fried chicken dinners. Among the many versions out there, KFC-style coleslaw stands out for its unique blend of creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. This recipe brings the beloved fast-food classic into your kitchen, allowing you to recreate that iconic taste at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a coleslaw that rivals the original, perfect for picnics, family gatherings, or just as a delicious side to your favorite meals. Let’s dive into the steps to make this crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon onion, finely grated
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup buttermilk, well shaken
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 cups or 1-16 ounce bag coleslaw cabbage, finely diced
- 1/4 cup carrot, shredded (omit if you’re using bagged coleslaw mix)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- If you’re not using pre-packaged coleslaw mix, start by finely dicing the cabbage and shredding the carrots. The key to authentic KFC-style coleslaw is finely chopped cabbage, which gives the salad its smooth texture. Grate the onion finely as well, as this will blend seamlessly into the dressing.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely grated onion and sugar. Add the mayonnaise, buttermilk, whole milk, white vinegar, fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until the dressing is smooth and well-combined. The dressing should be creamy with a perfect balance of tanginess from the vinegar and lemon juice, and a hint of sweetness from the sugar.
- Combine the Coleslaw:
- Add the finely diced cabbage and shredded carrot to the bowl of dressing. Toss everything together until the cabbage and carrot are thoroughly coated in the dressing. Be sure to mix well to ensure that every bite is packed with flavor.
- Chill and Serve:
- For the best results, cover the coleslaw and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to soften slightly, achieving that signature KFC-style texture. Stir the coleslaw once more before serving.
- Presentation:
- Serve your homemade KFC-style coleslaw chilled, as a side dish to fried chicken, barbecue, or any meal that could use a refreshing, creamy companion. Garnish with a sprinkle of black pepper or a few extra shreds of carrot for a pop of color if desired.
Conclusion:
Recreating the classic KFC-style coleslaw at home is easier than you might think. With its perfect blend of creaminess, tang, and sweetness, this coleslaw is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it at a summer cookout or alongside your favorite comfort food, this recipe offers a homemade touch to a fast-food favorite that everyone will love. The next time you’re looking for a simple, yet delicious side dish, reach for this recipe and enjoy the taste of KFC-style coleslaw made right in your own kitchen.