KFC Copycat Coleslaw Recipe
Introduction
This KFC Copycat Coleslaw is a creamy, tangy side dish that perfectly complements fried chicken or barbecue. Its finely chopped vegetables and simple dressing come together to create a classic, crunchy coleslaw you’ll want to make again and again.
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, chop the cabbage by pulsing until finely chopped. Work in small batches to avoid pulverizing it. Repeat the same process with the carrot. Place both cabbage and carrot in a medium bowl.
- Step 2: In a separate small bowl, combine buttermilk, white vinegar, chopped onion, whole milk, mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Step 3: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture, then stir well. Don’t worry if it seems dry at first; the cabbage will release moisture shortly.
- Step 4: Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly. Stir again before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, add finely chopped celery or a spoonful of shredded apple.
- Use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar for a slightly fruitier tang.
- To make it dairy-free, substitute buttermilk and milk with unsweetened almond milk and use a dairy-free mayonnaise.
Storage
Store leftover 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 enjoyed cold and should not be frozen.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I chop the vegetables by hand instead of using a food processor?
Yes, finely chopping the cabbage and carrot by hand works well. Just make sure to cut them into small, uniform pieces to achieve the classic texture of this coleslaw.
How long can I prepare the coleslaw in advance?
This coleslaw tastes best when made a few hours ahead to allow the flavors to meld, but you can prepare it up to a day in advance. Keep it refrigerated and stir before serving.
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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 and tangy coleslaw served at KFC. Made with finely chopped cabbage and carrots mixed with a smooth dressing of mayonnaise, buttermilk, vinegar, and lemon juice, it’s the perfect side dish to complement your fried chicken or barbecue meals. Refrigerated before serving to allow flavors to meld, this coleslaw is refreshingly crisp and bursting with balanced sweetness and zest.
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 it is finely chopped into small squares, being careful not to over-process it into a puree. Repeat this process with the carrot. Transfer the chopped cabbage and carrot into a medium-sized bowl.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, combine the buttermilk, white vinegar, finely chopped onion, whole milk, mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Mix the Coleslaw: Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat the vegetables evenly. The mixture may seem slightly dry initially as the cabbage will soon release moisture.
- Refrigerate and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cabbage’s moisture to blend with the dressing. Before serving, give the coleslaw a good stir to ensure consistent flavor throughout.
Notes
- For best results, finely chop the cabbage and carrot to replicate KFC’s texture.
- Use freshly chopped onion to enhance the dressing’s flavor.
- Refrigerating the coleslaw helps soften the veggies and meld the flavors.
- Adjust sugar and lemon juice to taste if you prefer sweeter or zestier slaw.
- Can be made a few hours in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: KFC coleslaw, copycat coleslaw, creamy coleslaw recipe, southern coleslaw, classic coleslaw, easy coleslaw
