Description of this recipe: This recipe provides a delicious and authentic copycat version of the iconic KFC Coleslaw. It perfectly balances creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors with the crisp freshness of cabbage and carrots. This slaw is ideal as a side dish for fried chicken, barbecued meats, burgers, and sandwiches.
Why you will love this recipe:
- Authentic Taste: Captures the unique flavor profile of KFC’s coleslaw.
- Easy to Make: Uses simple ingredients and straightforward instructions.
- Perfectly Balanced: Strikes a harmonious balance between creamy, tangy, and sweet.
- Versatile: Complements a wide range of main courses, from fried chicken to grilled favorites.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavors meld together and improve with chilling, making it a great option for meal prep.
Introduction
KFC coleslaw: Just the mention of it conjures up images of crispy fried chicken, summer picnics, and backyard barbecues. That cool, creamy, slightly sweet, and subtly tangy slaw is the perfect counterpoint to the richness of fried chicken or the smokiness of grilled meats. But what makes KFC coleslaw so darn irresistible? It’s a recipe that has been meticulously crafted to deliver a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
For years, home cooks have tried to replicate this iconic side dish. Some have come close, others have fallen short. But what if I told you that achieving that authentic KFC coleslaw taste in your own kitchen is not only possible but surprisingly simple? This recipe is designed to do just that. No mysterious ingredients, no complicated techniques – just straightforward instructions and readily available ingredients that come together to create a coleslaw that rivals the original.
The secret lies in understanding the delicate balance of flavors. The creamy mayonnaise provides the foundation, while the buttermilk adds a subtle tang and richness. Apple cider vinegar and lemon juice contribute a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise, preventing the coleslaw from feeling heavy. Sugar sweetens the deal, while salt and pepper season everything to perfection. And of course, the fresh cabbage, carrots, and onion provide the essential crunch and texture that define a good coleslaw.
This recipe is more than just a list of ingredients and instructions. It’s a journey into the world of flavor balancing. It’s about understanding how different ingredients interact with each other to create a symphony of tastes. It’s about taking something as simple as coleslaw and elevating it to a whole new level. So, grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to make the best KFC coleslaw you’ve ever tasted!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium green cabbage, shredded
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by thoroughly washing and drying the cabbage, carrot, and onion. Using a sharp knife or a food processor with a shredding attachment, shred the green cabbage into fine, even strips. Grate the carrot using a box grater or the grating attachment of your food processor. Finely chop the onion into small pieces, ensuring they are evenly sized. Place the shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and chopped onion into a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing: In a separate, medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Using a whisk, vigorously mix all the ingredients together until the dressing is smooth, creamy, and well-emulsified. Ensure there are no lumps of mayonnaise or undissolved sugar. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may want to add a pinch more salt or sugar to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
Step 3: Combine and Toss: Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage mixture in the large mixing bowl. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss the vegetables and dressing together until all the cabbage, carrot, and onion are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the coleslaw to become watery.
Step 4: Chill and Marinate: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the coleslaw to an airtight container. Place the coleslaw in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1-2 hours, or preferably longer. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld together and intensifies the taste of the coleslaw. The longer it chills, the better the flavor will be.
Step 5: Serve: Before serving, give the coleslaw a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve cold as a refreshing side dish with your favorite meals.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve alongside fried chicken for the classic KFC experience.
- Pair with barbecued ribs, pulled pork, or brisket for a perfect summer meal.
- Use as a topping for burgers, sandwiches, or hot dogs.
- Add to fish tacos or shrimp tacos for a creamy, tangy contrast.
- Serve as a side dish with grilled fish or chicken.
Tips:
- For the best texture, use freshly shredded cabbage and grated carrots.
- Don’t overmix the coleslaw, as this can make it watery.
- Adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to your personal preference.
- For a spicier coleslaw, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
- If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle slightly.
- The coleslaw can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
0 minutes
Total Time:
20 minutes + 1-2 hours chilling
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Calories: Approximately 200 calories per serving
Protein: Approximately 2 grams per serving
Sodium: Approximately 200 milligrams per serving
Conclusion
There you have it – a spot-on copycat recipe for KFC coleslaw that you can easily make at home. With its creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor, this coleslaw is guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering. So, ditch the store-bought stuff and whip up a batch of this delicious coleslaw. Your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you for it. It’s the perfect accompaniment to all your favorite summer meals and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
5 Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Question 1: Can I use pre-shredded cabbage for this recipe?
Answer: While it is certainly more convenient to use pre-shredded cabbage, I would recommend shredding your own cabbage for the best results. Pre-shredded cabbage often lacks the crispness and freshness of freshly shredded cabbage, and it may also contain preservatives that can affect the flavor of the coleslaw. If you do choose to use pre-shredded cabbage, make sure to rinse it thoroughly and pat it dry before using it in the recipe.
Question 2: How long can I store this coleslaw in the refrigerator?
Answer: This coleslaw can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. However, keep in mind that the coleslaw may become a bit softer and more watery as it sits in the refrigerator. It is best to consume the coleslaw within the first 1-2 days for the best texture and flavor. Be sure to check for any signs of spoilage before consuming, such as an off odor or a slimy texture.
Question 3: Can I freeze this coleslaw?
Answer: Unfortunately, freezing coleslaw is not recommended. The mayonnaise-based dressing tends to separate and become watery when thawed, resulting in a mushy and unappetizing texture. The cabbage and carrots may also lose their crispness after freezing. For the best results, it is best to make this coleslaw fresh and consume it within a few days.
Question 4: I don’t have buttermilk. Can I substitute something else?
Answer: Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with a few different options. The easiest substitute is to use regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar per cup of milk. Stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes to curdle slightly, which will mimic the tanginess of buttermilk. Another option is to use plain yogurt or sour cream thinned with a little milk or water until it reaches a pourable consistency.
Question 5: Can I add any other vegetables or ingredients to this coleslaw?
Answer: Absolutely! Coleslaw is a very versatile dish, and you can easily customize it to your liking. Some popular additions include:
- Other vegetables: Diced bell peppers, celery, or radishes can add extra crunch and flavor.
- Fruits: Adding a handful of raisins, dried cranberries, or pineapple chunks can add sweetness and chewiness.
- Nuts and seeds: Toasted pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds can add a nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley, cilantro, or dill can add a fresh, herbaceous note.
Feel free to experiment and find your own favorite combination of ingredients! Just be sure to adjust the dressing accordingly to maintain the perfect balance of flavors.
