👨‍🍳 KFC Coleslaw Recipe: Authentic Homemade Version

by | Jul 1, 2024 | Chicken Recipes, Fried Chicken Recipes

Ever wanted to make KFC’s famous coleslaw at home? This recipe brings the taste of the iconic coleslaw to your kitchen. It’s perfect for barbecues, picnics in summer, or any family gathering. You’ll love its creamy, tangy flavor.

Capture KFC’s coleslaw with fresh green cabbage and carrots. A creamy dressing ties it all together. Use a food processor for the right texture. This dish is quick to make and goes well with many meals, adding an authentic touch.

Key Takeaways

  • Quick prep time of just 10 minutes for homemade KFC coleslaw.
  • Nutritional info: 105 calories per serving with a balance of carbs, proteins, and fats.
  • Essential ingredients: cabbage, carrots, onions, and a creamy dressing.
  • The recipe emphasizes finely chopping vegetables for that authentic KFC texture.
  • Enjoy the classic coleslaw side dish that pairs well with any main course.
  • Recipe received excellent ratings from users, with a high satisfaction level.

Introduction to KFC Coleslaw

The Kentucky Fried Chicken cole slaw recipe is a favorite with many for its unique mix of creamy and crunchy. It’s praised for bringing together buttermilk and mayonnaise to create a tasty dressing. We will show you how to make this traditional cole slaw recipe step by step. You’ll be using ingredients that are easy to find.

This version of the coleslaw tastes just like KFC’s, with a satisfying crunch in every spoonful. It’s perfect for parties, family meals, or even a simple barbecue gathering. The recipe is good for 6 to 8 servings but can be increased for more guests. Remember, to enjoy it at its best, eat the coleslaw within 1 to 2 days of making. It can also keep in the fridge for 3 to 4 days if stored well.

Ingredients for Homemade KFC Coleslaw

Starting your KFC coleslaw at home requires the right ingredients. The classic creamy dressing is made from key ingredients. Then, you can add a few extra items to make it just how you like. Learn which components you need for a coleslaw that tastes just like KFC’s.

Core Ingredients

The key to real KFC coleslaw is in these base ingredients. They are important for getting that special taste and feel:

  • Cabbage: 6 cups of diced cabbage
  • Carrot: 1 finely shredded carrot
  • Onion: 2 tablespoons of finely chopped onion
  • Sugar: 1/3 cup of granulated sugar
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup of Hellman’s or Duke’s
  • Whole Milk: 1/4 cup
  • Buttermilk: 1/4 cup
  • Vinegar: 2 tablespoons of white vinegar
  • Lemon Juice: 3 tablespoons

Optional Additions

Looking to customize your KFC coleslaw? You can add these extra ingredients for your own twist:

  • Green Onions: Add for extra flavor and crunch
  • Alternative Vinegars: Apple cider, white wine, or red wine vinegar can be used
  • Sugar Substitutes: Adjust sugar quantity according to dietary needs
  • Red Cabbage: While it changes the appearance, it keeps the taste consistent

The optional ingredients are great for making your coleslaw special. They complement the base recipe well. Stick with the original or mix in new choices. Either way, you’ll create an amazing creamy coleslaw dressing.

ingredients for homemade KFC coleslaw

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Creating the perfect homemade KFC coleslaw needs attention to detail. This step-by-step guide will help you make a great coleslaw.

Chopping the Cabbage

To finely shred your coleslaw, chop the green cabbage thinly. You can use a knife or a food processor. Begin by taking off the outer leaves. Cut the cabbage into quarters and remove the core. Slice each quarter thinly. Continue until all the cabbage is shredded. Also, finely dice the carrots and white onion for the right coleslaw feel.

Cabbage contains 93% water, ensuring a crisp bite in every mouthful of your coleslaw.

Mixing the Ingredients

After preparing the vegetables, it’s mixing time. Put the cabbage, carrots, and onion in a bowl. In another bowl, mix Miracle Whip Light, sugar, vinegar, and vegetable oil. Combine them well.

Then, add this dressing to the vegetables. Mix it all together. For the best flavor, let it sit in the fridge overnight. It brings out the KFC coleslaw’s taste. Keep it in a sealed container and eat within 3-5 days.

With this step-by-step recipe guide, you can make homemade KFC coleslaw for your next meal. Your family will love this classic coleslaw side dish.

Ingredients Quantity
Green Cabbage 1 large head or 2 medium heads
White Onion 1
Carrots 2 finely diced
Miracle Whip Light 2 cups
Sugar 1/2 cup
Vinegar 1/4 cup
Vegetable Oil 1/4 cup

Secrets to the Creamy Coleslaw Dressing

The secret to KFC coleslaw’s great taste is in its dressing. By understanding its recipe, you can make a coleslaw perfect for any BBQ. This will be a hit and won’t be forgotten.

creamy coleslaw dressing

Using Buttermilk

Buttermilk is key for that special taste in the creamy coleslaw dressing. It gives a tangy and rich flavor to the dish. If you don’t have buttermilk, a mix of regular milk with lemon juice or vinegar can work as a substitute.

Balancing Tang and Sweetness

Getting the right mix of tang and sweet is crucial. The mix usually has buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, and some sugar. You can tweak these to your liking. This ensures your coleslaw has the perfect balance, with a hint of KFC’s style. For more tang, adding a bit of lemon juice works well with the sugar.

Why This Recipe Tastes Just Like KFC’s

The secret to this coleslaw recipe is its unique mix of ingredients. It gets its tangy flavor from buttermilk. This makes it taste just like the original recipe from home.

The key to the recipe’s beloved texture? Finely chop the cabbage just right. This means half a cabbage, or four cups, is perfect. A shallot gives it that extra kick, rounding out the amazing taste.

White vinegar is used to keep the bright flavor. It balances well with the mayonnaise, making it thick and creamy. This is the smooth and tasty mix that KFC’s coleslaw is famous for.

For the perfect sweetness, we add a third of a cup of sugar. Fresh lemon juice lifts the taste. A bit of salt and pepper finish off the dressing wonderfully.

Ingredient Quantity
Coleslaw Mix 16 ounces
Shallot 1
Granulated Sugar ⅓ cup
Mayonnaise ½ cup
Buttermilk ¼ cup
Whole Milk ¼ cup
Lemon Juice 2 tablespoons
White Vinegar 1 ½ tablespoons
Salt ½ teaspoon
Ground Black Pepper ½ teaspoon

This coleslaw recipe is quick to make, taking only 10 minutes to prepare. Then, let it chill for 2 hours for the best taste. A food processor makes the job easier, from mixing the coleslaw to grating the shallot.

Leftovers are good for up to 5 days, if kept in the fridge. But, don’t freeze it because of the dairy. This ensures the dressing stays creamy and fresh.

Tips for Making the Best Coleslaw

To make a top-notch southern coleslaw, you need to pick the best ingredients. Pay close attention to what you use and how long your coleslaw chills. Follow these steps, and your coleslaw will have the perfect texture. This makes it a hit at any social event.

Using Fresh Ingredients

For the best taste and crunch, start with the freshest veggies. A mix of shredded cabbage and carrots is a must. Fresh veggies not only taste better but they also give your coleslaw the right texture. Make sure your cabbage is crisp and your carrots are bright. This makes every bite amazing. Don’t go for the pre-cut mixes that have been around too long.

Chilling Time

Chilling your coleslaw is key to its flavor and creaminess. Ideally, chill it for at least two hours. But the best flavor comes when you chill it overnight. This lets the dressing soak into the veggies. The result is a coleslaw that’s tasty and balanced.

Remember, coleslaws with mayo or dairy can go bad if left out too long. Keep these kinds in the fridge. They can last 3-4 days this way.

Characteristic Recommendation
Chilling Time At least 2 hours, best overnight
Shelf Life 3-4 days in refrigerator
Food Safety Discard if left out over 2 hours
Serving Size 1/2 cup per serving

Use fresh ingredients and chill well for a coleslaw that shines. Your recipe will become a favorite for everyone who tries it.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with KFC Coleslaw

The copycat KFC coleslaw is famous as a classic side dish. It’s loved for its creamy, tangy flavor. This dish is not just yummy on its own. It also makes other dishes taste even better, proving it’s a great pick for any menu.

Are you having a barbecue or a family dinner? Adding KFC coleslaw like the original is a smart move. It elevates any meal. Here are some top-notch matches:

  • Grilled Chicken: Its smoky flavors mix well with the coleslaw’s creaminess.
  • BBQ Ribs: The delicious taste of ribs goes perfectly with the coleslaw’s fresh bite.
  • Southern Fried Catfish: Fried catfish’s crunch meets the coleslaw’s classic taste nicely.
  • Pulled Pork Sandwiches: A Southern favorite, the pulled pork gets a lift from the coleslaw.
  • Baked Beans: Baked beans’ sweet and savory mix pairs great with the coleslaw’s tang.

Here’s a handy table to show how each dish shines with a side of KFC coleslaw:

Dish Flavor Profile Pairing Benefits
Grilled Chicken Smoky, Tender Enhanced Creaminess and Balance
BBQ Ribs Rich, Savory Refreshingly Crunchy Contrast
Southern Fried Catfish Crispy, Mild Boosts Texture and Flavor
Pulled Pork Sandwiches Sweet, Tender Complements with Tangy Freshness
Baked Beans Sweet, Savory Delightful Flavor Contrast

These pairings turn every meal into a taste adventure. With KFC coleslaw as the hero, every bite becomes memorable. Try these combos and see how they transform your dining experience!

Kentucky Fried Chicken Coleslaw Recipe

Love KFC’s coleslaw? Now you can make it at home with this easy recipe. It’s creamy, tangy, and a bit sweet. This southern-style coleslaw is perfect for a barbecue. Follow these simple steps to create your own KFC coleslaw.

Kentucky Fried Chicken Coleslaw Recipe

  • Mayonnaise: 119.50 grams or 1/2 cup
  • White Sugar: 66.67 grams or 1/3 cup
  • Milk: 61 grams or 1/4 cup
  • Buttermilk: 61.25 grams or 1/4 cup
  • Lemon juice: 38.13 grams or 2 1/2 tablespoons
  • White vinegar: 22.35 grams or 1 1/2 tablespoons
  • Salt: 3 grams or 1/2 teaspoon
  • Black pepper: 0.26 grams or 1/8 teaspoon
  • Cabbage: 560 grams or 8 cups/1 head
  • Carrots: 27.5 grams or 1/4 cup
  • Minced Onions: 20 grams or 2 tablespoons

Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Start by mixing mayonnaise, white sugar, milk, buttermilk, lemon juice, white vinegar, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Keep whisking until it’s smooth.
  2. Shred the cabbage and carrots very finely. If you have a food processor, it can make the veggies just like KFC’s.
  3. Add the cabbage, carrots, and onions to the dressing. Mix it well so every piece is coated.
  4. Cover and chill the coleslaw for at least an hour. It’s even better if you let it sit overnight.

Each serving of this coleslaw has about 133 calories. That includes 12g of carbs, 1g of protein, 9g of fat, and 2g of fiber. You’ll get ten servings from this recipe. It will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days, but it’s tastiest in the first two days.

Looking for another great coleslaw recipe? Try this guide for different ways to make it. You might even find a homemade KFC coleslaw version you like even more!

Ingredient Quantity
Mayonnaise 119.50 grams / 1/2 cup
White Sugar 66.67 grams / 1/3 cup
Milk 61 grams / 1/4 cup
Buttermilk 61.25 grams / 1/4 cup
Lemon juice 38.13 grams / 2 1/2 tablespoons
White vinegar 22.35 grams / 1 1/2 tablespoons
Salt 3 grams / 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 0.26 grams / 1/8 teaspoon
Cabbage 560 grams / 8 cups/1 head
Carrots 27.5 grams / 1/4 cup
Minced Onions 20 grams / 2 tablespoons

To jazz up your coleslaw, try other southern coleslaw recipes. They can add a new twist to this classic dish.

Nutrition Information and Serving Size

Knowing about the nutrition in your coleslaw is important, whether it’s a simple recipe or from KFC. It helps with your diet. We’ve detailed the nutrition and the right size of a portion you should eat. This will help you control what you eat.

Caloric Breakdown

A typical serving of KFC Coleslaw, about 112 grams, includes:

  • Calories: 161 kcal
  • Fat: 9.7g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g (including 15g of sugars and 2.2g of dietary fiber)
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Cholesterol: 2.2mg
  • Vitamin A: 1.12 mcg
  • Vitamin C: 16.4mg
  • Iron: 0.24mg
  • Calcium: 31.36mg
  • Potassium: 157mg

Portion Recommendations

Coleslaw Type Recommended Serving Size Calories Carbohydrates Fat Protein
KFC Coleslaw 112g 161 kcal 18g 9.7g 1g
Homemade Keto Coleslaw 1 cup 198 kcal 8.6g (5.7g net carbs) 18g 2.7g
Homemade KFC Coleslaw 1 cup 127 kcal 11g 9g 1g

To get the best from your food, and keep your diet in check, stick to these recommended serving sizes. Here’s a closer look at the servings:

  • KFC Coleslaw is not the best if you’re watching sugar intake, as it has more sugar.
  • A homemade keto coleslaw is better for low-carb diets, being lower in carbs.
  • The homemade KFC coleslaw has fewer calories and carbs but still tastes like the fast-food one.

So, by picking the right serving and recipe, you can enjoy coleslaw without going off your diet.

Adjusting the Recipe for Dietary Needs

Adapting the Kentucky Fried Chicken coleslaw recipe is not hard for different needs. You can make it a healthy version. It will still be a favorite, fitting many diets.

For those into vegan eating, swap the mayo and buttermilk with vegan choices. Use vegan mayo and almond milk for a creamy, vegan version. Skip the sugar, adding agave or maple syrup, to make it healthy.

Want to cut calories but keep the taste? Try using low-fat or Greek yogurt instead of mayo. It will be creamy with less fat. To lower carbs, cut the sugar or go for stevia.

A look at the standard and modified nutritional values for KFC coleslaw:

Nutrient Original KFC Coleslaw Vegan/Reduced Calorie Variant
Calories 84 kcal 74 kcal
Carbohydrates 8g 6g
Fat 6g 5g
Protein 1g 1g
Sugar 7g 5g

Tweaking the coleslaw keeps it tasty and suits more diets. With these changes, everyone can enjoy the classic dish. It meets various dietary needs without losing its flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the best coleslaw for BBQ means watching out for common mistakes. A few key errors can mess up your coleslaw’s texture and taste. It’s important to know these mistakes and how to sidestep them.

Overmixing the Coleslaw

If you mix too much, your coleslaw won’t be right. When you mix, do it gently. Mixing too hard can make the cabbage soft. To keep it crisp, use something like tongs, and mix gently until you see everything’s spread evenly.

Inadequate Chilling Time

Chilling your coleslaw enough is key for great taste. A big mistake is not waiting long enough to chill it before serving. Take the Vegan KFC Copycat Coleslaw, for instance. It says to let the flavors mix overnight.

Chill your coleslaw for at least an hour. But for the best taste, let it sit in the fridge all night.

Avoid these mistakes to make top-notch homemade coleslaw. The right coleslaw will make your BBQ shine, with its perfect crunch.

User Reviews and Testimonials

Reading genuine reviews helps us understand how others like a recipe. Many users say a homemade coleslaw is a hit, especially when compared to KFC’s. They think the homemade one is more real and tasty.

“You won’t want to touch the one with the secret herbs and spices after tasting this finger-lickin’ version,” said one enthusiastic reviewer, emphasizing the superiority of the authentic homemade version.

KFC got a low 2.4-star rating. 63% said it was one star, while only 20% gave five stars. Yet, those who tried a homemade version were much happier. This shows how much user feedback matters.

Here’s a closer look at the ratings:

Rating Percentage
1 Star 63%
2 Stars 8%
3 Stars 5%
4 Stars 4%
5 Stars 20%

User reviews stretch from Puyallup, Washington to Mumbai, showing widespread satisfaction. Some shared tips like freezing chicken leftovers or adjusting the recipe for diets. This makes the recipe more useful to everyone.

The invitation for comments still stands, keeping the discussion open. Whether you seek a dairy-free option or want to make KFC’s coleslaw, user reviews recommend trying the homemade version. It seems you won’t regret it.

Conclusion

Creating the perfect coleslaw, like KFC’s, brings joy to many. This recipe for 6-8 people is loved by many, including those in the TopSecretRecipes subreddit. It’s loved for how easy it is to make and its true-to-the-original taste.

The recipe uses simple ingredients like cabbage, carrot, mayo, and vinegar. Key tips, such as cutting veggies small and chilling the mix, help get the perfect flavor and texture. Todd Wilbur, a master at copying recipes, has made this version popular.

This coleslaw is light at 125 calories per serving and brings in important vitamins. Its mix of sweet from sugar and zest from lemon and vinegar make it perfect. Whether with fried chicken or by itself, it’s sure to please. Try this classic coleslaw for a special meal today!

FAQ

What are the core ingredients for homemade KFC coleslaw?

Fresh green cabbage, shredded carrots, and buttermilk are key. Mayonnaise and seasonings add the perfect flavor balance.

Can I use a food processor to chop the cabbage?

Yes, a food processor works well for KFC coleslaw’s finely chopped cabbage.

How do I balance the tanginess and sweetness in the dressing?

Use buttermilk, lemon juice, and sugar carefully for the dressing’s balance. Adjust for your preferred taste.

What dishes pair well with KFC coleslaw?

KFC coleslaw pairs nicely with BBQ, fried chicken, and southern comfort foods.

How long should I chill the coleslaw before serving?

Chill for at least 2 hours. Overnight is better, enhancing both flavor and texture.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making coleslaw?

Avoid overmixing to keep the texture right. Also, be sure to chill it enough for full flavor.

Are there dietary modifications for the coleslaw recipe?

For a healthier twist, use less sugar and low-fat mayo. For vegans, choose plant-based alternatives.

How many calories are in a serving of homemade KFC coleslaw?

Each serving of homemade KFC coleslaw is around 150 calories, but it varies.

What feedback have users provided about the homemade KFC coleslaw recipe?

Users love how this coleslaw tastes like KFC’s, saying it’s easy to make. It’s a top choice for homemade versions.