Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Are you a fan of the creamy, sweet, and tangy KFC coleslaw? This delightful side dish has made its way onto picnic tables, barbecue plates, and family gatherings for years, rapidly becoming a beloved staple. The great news is that you can recreate it right in your own kitchen! In this article, you’re going to learn how to make a copycat version of KFC coleslaw that is incredibly simple to whip up, uses fresh ingredients, and tastes just like the original.
Coleslaw is more than just a salad; it’s a way to elevate your meals with a refreshing crunch and a burst of flavor. Whether you’re serving it alongside fried chicken, hamburgers, or pulled pork sandwiches, this coleslaw complements every dish beautifully. As you follow along, expect to discover tips for perfecting your coleslaw, variations to try, and common mistakes to avoid that can take your recipe from good to fantastic.
What Is KFC Coleslaw?
KFC coleslaw is a classic American side dish primarily made with finely shredded raw cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing. This iconic coleslaw has a sweet and tangy flavor that perfectly balances its crunchiness, making it an ideal accompaniment to fried foods. The charm of this dish lies in its simple yet harmonious blend of ingredients, celebrated for being both satisfying and refreshing.
The origins of coleslaw date back to ancient Roman times, where cabbage and eggs were combined to create a primitive version. Fast forward to the 18th century, and we find a more recognizable version in the United States, commonly made with mayonnaise. KFC’s coleslaw offers a unique twist with its special dressing, which includes a touch of sweetness and a hint of sharpness from vinegar, making it stand out. The texture is creamy yet light, with vibrant colors from the vegetables, resulting in an irresistible dish that you’ll always want to make again once you’ve tried it!
Why You’ll Love This KFC Coleslaw
There are plenty of reasons to love this KFC coleslaw copycat recipe! First and foremost, it’s an effortless and quick recipe that can be prepared in less than 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. You’ll appreciate the minimal effort involved in creating something so flavorful that tastes just like the original.
Additionally, this coleslaw is versatile—it can be customized to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Want to go a bit lighter? Adjust the amount of mayonnaise. Looking for extra crunch? Add chopped apples, walnuts, or even some spicy jalapeños for a kick. Also, making coleslaw at home is significantly more economical than buying it pre-made, especially when feeding a large crowd. You control the quality and freshness of the ingredients, ensuring your coleslaw is as healthy as possible.
This dish is incredibly popular among families because it balances the richness of fried or grilled meats with its refreshing acidity. You can quickly play around with the flavors until you find the perfect balance that works for your palate—it’s fun to test different ratios and ingredients!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the perfect copycat KFC coleslaw, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 small head of cabbage – This is the base of your coleslaw. You can use green cabbage or a mix of green and purple for color.
- 1 cup shredded carrots – These add sweetness and crunch. Pre-shredded carrots work well too!
- ½ cup mayonnaise – This creates the creamy texture of the slaw. You can substitute with a lighter version if preferred.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar – Provides tanginess and helps balance the sweetness in the dressing.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar – This sweetens the dressing and is key to mimicking KFC’s flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Adds brightness and a flavorful twist.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the coleslaw.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Gives a slightly spicy note to the dressing.
The list may seem simple, but each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the signature taste and texture. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will yield the best results. A word of advice—experiment with different types of vinegars, as they can bring a unique flavor to your coleslaw!
How to Make KFC Coleslaw
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own copycat KFC coleslaw:
- Prepare the cabbage: Begin by removing the outer leaves of the cabbage. Rinse it thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or pesticides. Once clean, slice the cabbage into quarters and remove the core. Then, finely shred the cabbage using a sharp knife, a food processor, or a box grater. Aim for a very fine shred to replicate the KFC texture.
- Shred the carrots: Either buy pre-shredded carrots or shred your own using a box grater or food processor. You want the carrots to be about the same size as the shredded cabbage for consistency. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and shredded carrots.
- Make the dressing: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Taste it, and if needed, adjust the sweetness or tanginess according to your preferences. If you want it sweeter, add more sugar; for a tangier flavor, add a little more vinegar.
- Combine cabbage and dressing: Pour the dressing over the shredded cabbage and carrots in the large mixing bowl. Stir gently but thoroughly, ensuring all the vegetables are coated with the dressing. You want every bite to be rich and flavorful!
- Chill: Cover the coleslaw with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier.
- Serve: Once chilled, give the coleslaw a quick stir and taste again for seasoning adjustments if necessary. Serve it alongside your favorite meals hot off the grill or straight from the fryer. Enjoy!
The key to great coleslaw is allowing it to sit before serving, as it improves the flavor and texture. It’s a great make-ahead dish that you can prepare a day prior to an event.
6 Variations & Substitutions
Classic KFC Inspired: Stick to the original recipe with the exact ingredients to give your version that iconic taste.
Vegan Coleslaw: Substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo alternative to make the dish entirely plant-based. You can also replace granulated sugar with maple syrup or agave syrup for a natural sweetener, making it suitable for vegans.
Spicy Coleslaw: Add some chopped jalapeños or use a spicy mayonnaise to kick up the heat. You can also incorporate some crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce to give it a flavorful zing.
Tropical Twist: Add fresh pineapple or mango chunks to the slaw for a refreshing tropical twist. The sweetness of the fruit pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the dressing.
Crunchy Additions: Incorporate additional vegetables, like radishes or bell peppers, for extra crunch. You can also include nuts, such as chopped almonds or walnuts, to add texture and flavor.
Herbed Coleslaw: Adding fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro can provide an herby flavor that elevates your coleslaw. Mix in about 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs right before serving to brighten up the dish.
These variations allow you to customize your coleslaw to suit any occasion or personal taste. The versatility of this dish is one of its many attractive qualities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making coleslaw, particularly the KFC version, there are a few common pitfalls that can diminish your results.
One significant mistake is not allowing the coleslaw to chill long enough after preparation. Not refrigerating it adequately can lead to a less flavorful coleslaw. The cooling time allows the flavors to mesh beautifully, enhancing overall taste and texture, so be patient!
Another frequent issue is cutting the vegetables too coarsely. It’s essential to finely shred the cabbage and carrots to mimic the famous KFC texture. Larger pieces create an unpleasant mouthfeel and can make the slaw dry, as the dressing won’t coat them evenly.
Also, be careful with the balance of flavors. If you add too much vinegar, your coleslaw can become overly tart, while too much sugar may overwhelm the freshness. Always taste your dressing before mixing it with the cabbage and adjust as necessary.
Lastly, don’t forget about seasoning. While salt and pepper may seem trivial, they can significantly enhance the overall flavor of the coleslaw. Always season to taste to ensure your dish is perfectly balanced.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
To store leftover KFC coleslaw, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. Best consumed within 3-4 days, it will keep well in the fridge without losing much flavor or texture. However, it’s worth noting that the coleslaw may become a bit watery as the salt draws moisture from the vegetables, so giving it a quick stir before serving can help redistribute the dressing.
It’s not recommended to freeze coleslaw, as the texture of the cabbage will break down and become mushy once thawed. If you plan to make a large batch, it’s best to only prepare as much as you can eat within a few days.
If your coleslaw does start to lose its crunch or freshness, try adding a little extra dressing just before serving. This quick tip can rejuvenate the texture and flavor, making it more enjoyable when you serve it again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix?
Yes, absolutely! Using a pre-shredded coleslaw mix can save you time. Typically, these mixes come with shredded cabbage and carrots, making it easy for you to skip that step. Just combine the mix with the dressing and chill it before serving.
How long can I keep homemade coleslaw in the fridge?
Homemade coleslaw can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Since the vegetables will continue to soften over time, the sooner you eat it, the better the texture will be.
Is coleslaw healthy?
Coleslaw can be a healthy option if made with fresh vegetables and a lighter dressing. Cabbage is low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins. If you’re worried about calories, you can lighten up the dressing with Greek yogurt or a low-fat mayonnaise alternative.
Can I customize the dressing recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the dressing based on your preferences. You can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version, or add different spices such as garlic powder or celery seed to enhance flavors.
What can I serve coleslaw with besides fried chicken?
Coleslaw pairs well with a variety of dishes, including hamburgers, hot dogs, grill recipes, pulled pork sandwiches, and barbecue foods. Its crunchy texture and tangy flavor complement rich, savory dishes beautifully.
Conclusion:
In summary, this KFC coleslaw copycat recipe brings the taste of a beloved classic right into your home kitchen. With a few simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow method, you can create a deliciously refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with numerous meals. Whether you are prepping for a picnic, a family gathering, or just a cozy dinner at home, this coleslaw is sure to impress! Embrace your inner chef and try this recipe today, and don’t hesitate to customize it to make it your own. Share it with friends and family, and watch as they ask for seconds!
