KFC Copycat Coleslaw Recipe
Introduction
This KFC Copycat Coleslaw recipe is a creamy, tangy side dish that’s easy to make at home. It perfectly balances crunchy cabbage and carrot with a smooth, flavorful dressing. A great addition to any meal or barbecue.
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 same process with the carrot. Transfer both to a medium bowl.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, combine buttermilk, white vinegar, chopped onion, whole milk, mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Step 3: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Stir well to combine, even if it seems a bit dry initially, as the cabbage will release moisture.
- Step 4: Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and moisture develop. Stir again before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a chunkier texture, chop the cabbage and carrot by hand instead of using a food processor.
- Substitute apple cider vinegar for white vinegar for a slightly different tang.
- Add a pinch of celery seed for a classic coleslaw flavor.
- Make it a day ahead to deepen the flavors even more.
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. It’s best served chilled and does not reheat well.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, but buttermilk adds a tangy flavor that enhances the dressing. To mimic buttermilk, you can add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of regular milk and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
How do I keep the coleslaw from getting soggy?
Make sure to chop the cabbage finely and drain any excess liquid if needed. Refrigerating the coleslaw before serving helps the cabbage absorb the dressing without becoming soggy quickly.
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KFC Copycat Coleslaw Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This KFC Copycat Coleslaw recipe replicates the classic creamy, tangy coleslaw served at KFC, featuring finely chopped cabbage and carrot mixed with a deliciously smooth dressing made from mayonnaise, buttermilk, vinegar, and a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. It’s easy to prepare and perfect as a refreshing side dish to your favorite fried chicken or barbecue meals.
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 pepper
Instructions
- Chop the Vegetables: Using a food processor, pulse the cabbage until finely chopped into small squares, avoiding pulverizing it completely. Repeat the same process with the carrot. Combine both chopped cabbage and carrot in a medium-sized bowl.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, thoroughly mix together the buttermilk, white vinegar, finely chopped onion, whole milk, mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Stir well to evenly coat all the vegetables. Don’t worry if the mixture appears slightly dry at first; the moisture from the cabbage will gradually be released and blend with the dressing.
- Refrigerate: Cover the coleslaw and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors of the dressing to meld with the vegetables and softens the cabbage slightly.
- Serve: Before serving, briefly stir the coleslaw once more to redistribute any settled dressing. Enjoy as a side dish alongside fried chicken, burgers, or barbecue.
Notes
- Finely chopping the cabbage and carrot is key to achieving the authentic KFC coleslaw texture.
- Using buttermilk adds a subtle tang that closely mimics the original recipe’s flavor.
- The coleslaw tastes best after it has chilled for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Adjust sugar and salt to taste, depending on your preference for sweetness and seasoning.
- This recipe can be made fresh, but overnight refrigeration enhances the flavor and texture even more.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: KFC coleslaw, copycat recipe, coleslaw, side dish, creamy coleslaw, American coleslaw
