KFC Coleslaw Recipe: A Copycat Recipe That's Surprisingly Easy
Are you craving that creamy, tangy, crunchy KFC coleslaw? You don't have to go to the drive-thru anymore! This copycat KFC coleslaw recipe is surprisingly easy to make at home, and it tastes just like the real deal. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this restaurant-quality side dish.
What Makes This KFC Coleslaw Recipe So Good?
This recipe perfectly captures the essence of KFC's famous coleslaw. We've focused on achieving that signature:
- Creamy Texture: The mayonnaise-based dressing is the star, creating a luscious, smooth coating for the crisp cabbage.
- Tangy Flavor: A perfect balance of vinegar and sugar provides a delightful tang that cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise.
- Perfect Crunch: We'll teach you how to get that satisfying crunch from the shredded cabbage and carrots.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, ensuring you can whip up a batch without any hassle.
- For the Coleslaw:
- 1 small head of green cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion (optional, for extra zing!)
- For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these easy steps for a perfect KFC coleslaw:
- Prep the Vegetables: Shred the cabbage and carrots. You can use a food processor or a sharp knife. The finer the shred, the better the coating with the dressing. If using, finely chop the red onion.
- Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, mustard, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Combine and Chill: Add the shredded cabbage, carrots, and red onion (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly. This chilling step is crucial for the best flavor and texture. The longer it sits (up to a few hours), the better it tastes!
Tips for Coleslaw Perfection:
- Shredding: For the best texture, aim for a consistent shred on your cabbage and carrots. Avoid over-shredding, as this can make the slaw mushy.
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the coleslaw and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You might want to add more vinegar for extra tang, or more sugar for extra sweetness.
- Add-ins: Feel free to experiment with add-ins! Some people like to add a little bit of shredded celery or even some chopped fresh parsley for extra flavor and color.
- Storage: Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions:
This KFC-style coleslaw is the perfect accompaniment to:
- Fried Chicken: Naturally! It’s a classic pairing.
- BBQ: The tangy slaw cuts through the richness of barbecue beautifully.
- Burgers: Add a spoonful to your burger for a delicious twist.
- Pulled Pork Sandwiches: A refreshing counterpoint to the savory pulled pork.
This copycat KFC coleslaw recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy! Remember to share your delicious creations with us! Let us know how yours turned out in the comments below.