There’s something special about the crunch of fresh cabbage mingling with creamy dressing, evoking memories of summer barbecues and family gatherings. I first discovered the secret to a perfect coleslaw—the famous KFC coleslaw classic—when I sought to recreate that nostalgic flavor at home. The blend of crisp vegetables and that irresistible tangy sweetness made this dish a staple on our dinner table.
After a particularly exhausting week, I craved the comfort of homemade dishes over the usual fast food fare. I decided to tackle this beloved side, a recipe that not only pairs beautifully with grilled chicken but also makes any meal feel exceptional. The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to whip up! With just a few ingredients, you can elevate any gathering, bringing a taste of KFC to your kitchen with ease.
Join me as we dive into this easy coleslaw dressing recipe that will have you ditching takeout forever!
Why is Famous KFC Coleslaw Classic a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: This dressing perfectly balances creamy and tangy, giving your coleslaw a unique twist that rivals the original!
Quick to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy homemade goodness in no time.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Elevate picnics, parties, or weeknight dinners with a dish that garners compliments from everyone.
Versatile Delight: Use this dressing not only for coleslaw but also as a dip or topping for sandwiches!
For a full culinary experience, check out my barbecue recipes that pair beautifully with this classic dressing!
Famous KFC Coleslaw Classic Ingredients
For the Dressing
- Mayonnaise – adds the creamy base that clings to the vegetables beautifully.
- Granulated Sugar – balances the tang, creating that signature sweetness reminiscent of the famous KFC coleslaw classic.
- Whole Milk – ensures a smooth texture that enhances overall creaminess.
- Buttermilk – imparts a delightful tang that elevates the flavor profile of the dressing.
- Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice – adds bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise.
- Distilled White Vinegar – brings an extra punch of tanginess to the mix for a well-rounded taste.
- Fine Sea Salt – enhances all the flavors, ensuring every bite is delicious.
- Ground Black Pepper – adds a subtle warmth and depth to the dressing.
For the Vegetables
- Green Cabbage – the main crunch that forms the heart of your coleslaw; shred for optimal texture.
- Shredded Carrot – introduces vibrant color and natural sweetness, making the coleslaw visually appealing.
- Minced White Onion – adds a sharp bite that complements the creamy dressing perfectly.
How to Make Famous KFC Coleslaw Classic
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, granulated sugar, whole milk, buttermilk, lemon juice, distilled white vinegar, fine sea salt, and ground black pepper. Stir well until fully blended and creamy.
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Add Vegetables: Gently fold in the finely chopped green cabbage, shredded carrot, and minced white onion into the dressing. Toss everything together until all veggies are beautifully coated and vibrant.
Optional: For extra crunch, try adding some chopped celery or bell peppers!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Famous KFC Coleslaw Classic
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Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest cabbage and carrots possible for a crunchier texture. Wilting veggies can lead to a soggy coleslaw!
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Mixing Method: Mix the dressing well before adding veggies to ensure an even coating. Undermixing might leave some bites less flavorful.
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Taste Test: Always taste your dressing before adding the vegetables. Adjust sweetness or tanginess as preferred—the ideal KFC coleslaw classic should be balanced and delicious.
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Chill Time: Let the coleslaw rest in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This enhances flavors and allows the dressing to meld beautifully.
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Storage Tips: Keep any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freshness is key for that mouthwatering taste!
How to Store and Freeze Famous KFC Coleslaw Classic
- Fridge: Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the vegetables crisp while preserving that delicious dressing.
- Freezer: It’s best not to freeze coleslaw, as the texture can become mushy upon thawing. Enjoy it fresh for the ultimate taste experience!
- Reheating: If you have a coleslaw recipe that needs a touch-up, simply mix in a bit of fresh dressing for added flavor—no heating necessary!
- Avoid Room Temperature: Never leave coleslaw at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain its freshness and safety.
Make Ahead Options
These Famous KFC Coleslaw Classic preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the coleslaw dressing up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the mayonnaise, sugar, milk, buttermilk, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper, then refrigerating it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can chop the cabbage, carrots, and onions ahead of time and store them separately for up to 3 days in the fridge to maintain their crunchiness. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped vegetables with the dressing and toss gently for a deliciously fresh coleslaw—perfect for any gathering with minimal last-minute effort!
Famous KFC Coleslaw Classic Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting variations, bringing your own touch to this beloved dish!
- Vegan Alternative: Substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo and use plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a zesty heat that elevates the flavors beautifully.
- Crunchy Add-ins: Toss in sunflower seeds or chopped nuts to create a delightful texture contrast that your family will love.
- Sweet and Savory: Mix in some diced apples or raisins for a sweet twist that complements the tangy dressing.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like dill or parsley to enhance the flavor profile with a refreshing touch.
- Citrus Burst: Replace lemon juice with lime juice for a brighter zing that pairs well with the creaminess.
- Tangy Twist: Use apple cider vinegar instead of distilled vinegar to add a unique flavor depth that surprises your taste buds.
- Asian Flair: Incorporate sesame oil and shredded napa cabbage for an Asian-inspired coleslaw that’s both refreshing and distinctive.
There are countless ways to enjoy this classic; let your creativity shine in the kitchen!
What to Serve with Famous KFC Coleslaw Classic?
Picture a delightful summer gathering where the crunch of fresh vegetables dances harmoniously with creamy flavors, creating the perfect accompaniment for your meal.
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Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor from grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with the creamy coleslaw, adding a refreshing contrast to every bite.
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BBQ Ribs: Savory and slightly sticky BBQ ribs are perfectly balanced by the sweet and tangy coleslaw, cutting through the richness of the meat.
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Pulled Pork Sandwiches: A classic combo! The coleslaw acts as a crunchy topping that adds texture and brightness to the hearty sandwich.
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Corn on the Cob: Juicy sweet corn brings a touch of summer flavors that complement the coleslaw’s tangy notes, making every mouthful burst with freshness.
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Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans harmonizes beautifully with the coleslaw, creating a balanced plate that’s sure to please.
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Potato Salad: Pair your coleslaw with a creamy potato salad for a delightful mix of textures and flavors, perfect for family gatherings.
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Iced Tea: Sweetened or unsweetened, this cool beverage refreshes your palate, enhancing the crispness of the coleslaw.
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Fruit Salad: A light and fruity salad can elevate your meal with its fresh sweetness, creating a delicious contrast to the savory elements.
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Chocolate Cake: For dessert lovers, a slice of rich chocolate cake offers a lovely sweet finish to a meal featuring coleslaw, allowing for a delightful flavor journey.
Famous KFC Coleslaw Classic Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best cabbage for coleslaw?
Absolutely! When choosing cabbage, look for heads that are firm and heavy for their size, with crisp, tightly packed leaves. Avoid any that have dark spots or wilting, as these can indicate spoilage. For a sweeter crunch, green cabbage is a wonderful choice that pairs perfectly with your dressing.
What is the best way to store leftover coleslaw?
Very easy! Store your leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to press the lid down to minimize air exposure, which can cause the vegetables to wilt. It’s important to keep it cool to maintain that delightful crunch and fresh flavors!
Can I freeze coleslaw?
While it may be tempting, it’s best not to freeze coleslaw due to its creamy dressing and fresh veggies. Freezing can lead to mushy cabbage and carrots once thawed, ruining that perfect texture. Instead, simply prepare smaller batches so you can enjoy it fresh!
What if my coleslaw dressing is too sweet or too tangy?
No worries at all! If you find your dressing leaning too sweet, you can balance it out by adding a little more lemon juice or vinegar to bring some acidity. Conversely, if it’s too tangy, stir in a touch more sugar or mayonnaise to mellow it out. Always taste as you go to find that perfect balance!
Is this coleslaw safe for people with dietary restrictions?
Great question! Since this coleslaw contains mayonnaise and dairy, it’s not suitable for those with egg or dairy allergies. To make it vegan-friendly, you can swap out the mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy milk. Always check ingredient labels for any pre-packaged items to ensure they’re allergen-free.
How can I enhance the texture of my coleslaw?
I often recommend incorporating additional crunchy elements like chopped celery, bell peppers, or even sunflower seeds. These not only provide delightful texture but also add a pops of flavor! Simply toss them in with your cabbage and dressing to enjoy a texturally vibrant coleslaw.
Famous KFC Coleslaw Classic You Can Make at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, granulated sugar, whole milk, buttermilk, lemon juice, distilled white vinegar, fine sea salt, and ground black pepper. Stir well until fully blended and creamy.
- Gently fold in the finely chopped green cabbage, shredded carrot, and minced white onion into the dressing. Toss everything together until all veggies are beautifully coated and vibrant.