Are you ready to recreate the iconic taste of Kentucky Fried Chicken’s famous coleslaw right in your own kitchen? Look no further! Our KFC Copycat Coleslaw recipe will transport you to the nostalgic flavors of this beloved side dish. With its crisp cabbage, creamy dressing, and hint of tanginess, this coleslaw is the perfect accompaniment to any meal or barbecue gathering. Join us as we unveil the secret to making this classic dish from scratch, complete with tips, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Ingredients:
- 8 cups of finely diced cabbage
- 1/4 cup of shredded carrot
- 1 tablespoon of finely grated onion
- 1/3 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup of whole milk
- 1/4 cup of well-shaken buttermilk
- 1 1/2 tablespoons of white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Finely dice the cabbage, shred the carrot, and grate the onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, mayonnaise, milk, buttermilk, white vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Pour the dressing over the diced vegetables in the mixing bowl. Toss everything together until the cabbage and carrot are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the coleslaw with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the coleslaw a final toss and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Enjoy!
- Serve the KFC Copycat Coleslaw as a side dish alongside your favorite fried chicken, sandwiches, or barbecue fare. It’s the perfect complement to any meal!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Creamy Consistency: For an extra creamy texture, you can increase the amount of mayonnaise and buttermilk in the dressing to suit your taste preferences.
- Crunchy Additions: Add extra crunch and flavor to your coleslaw by incorporating chopped nuts such as pecans or almonds, or crispy bacon bits.
- Herbal Infusion: Elevate the flavor profile of your coleslaw by adding chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or cilantro to the dressing.
- Sweet and Sour Balance: Adjust the amount of sugar, vinegar, and lemon juice according to your desired level of sweetness and tanginess.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix instead of shredding the cabbage and carrots myself? A: Yes, you can certainly use pre-shredded coleslaw mix for convenience. Just be aware that the texture may differ slightly from freshly shredded cabbage and carrots.
Q: How long will the coleslaw keep in the refrigerator? A: This coleslaw can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving if any separation occurs.
Q: Is there a dairy-free alternative to buttermilk? A: Yes, you can make a dairy-free buttermilk substitute by combining non-dairy milk (such as almond milk or coconut milk) with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes to curdle before using it in the recipe.
Q: Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time for a party or gathering? A: Absolutely! In fact, this coleslaw tastes even better when made ahead of time as it allows the flavors to meld together. Simply store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Keto Version and Low-Carb Adaptation:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s a modified version of the recipe:
Keto KFC Copycat Coleslaw:
- Substitute the sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
- Use full-fat mayonnaise and buttermilk to keep the dressing keto-friendly.
- Adjust the amount of carrot to reduce the carb content if desired, or omit it altogether.
With its creamy dressing, crunchy cabbage, and hint of sweetness, our KFC Copycat Coleslaw is a must-have addition to your recipe collection. Whether you’re enjoying it at a backyard barbecue, picnic, or family dinner, this coleslaw will bring the classic flavors of KFC right to your table. So, gather your ingredients, follow our simple instructions, and get ready to savor every bite of this irresistible side dish!
