Description
This KFC Coleslaw Recipe replicates the iconic chain's creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet coleslaw with finely chopped cabbage, carrots, and onions coated in a luscious homemade dressing. Perfectly chilled overnight, it boasts a smooth texture and balanced flavors that complement fried chicken or other classic meals.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 8 cups finely chopped cabbage
- 1/4 cup finely chopped carrot
- 2 & 1/2 tablespoons very finely minced yellow onion
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 2 & 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 & 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground pepper
Instructions
- Chop the vegetables finely: Finely chop the cabbage, carrots, and yellow onion until the pieces are almost as small as grains of rice. Use a sharp knife for precise chopping or a food processor with a shredding attachment followed by a fine chop for best results. You can also use pre-shredded coleslaw mix but make sure to finely chop the onions separately.
- Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, granulated sugar, whole milk, buttermilk, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, and ground pepper until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Combine vegetables and dressing: Add the finely chopped cabbage, carrots, and onions to the bowl with the dressing. Mix thoroughly until all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and marinate: Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate the coleslaw overnight for at least 12 hours. Stir occasionally if possible to encourage even flavor blending. Before serving, give it a final stir to ensure the dressing and vegetables are well incorporated.
Notes
- For the best texture and flavor, chopping the vegetables very finely is crucial, mimicking the texture of KFC coleslaw.
- Using freshly minced onion rather than onion powder or pre-diced onion enhances freshness.
- The coleslaw tastes best after resting overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften slightly.
- You can substitute pre-shredded coleslaw mix for fresh cabbage and carrots but finely mince the onions separately to maintain authentic texture.
- If you can’t find buttermilk, mix 1/4 cup milk with 1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit 5 minutes before using as a substitute.
