The Famous KFC Coleslaw Recipe

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage and Carrots

1. Shred the Cabbage: Start by removing any outer leaves of the cabbage and cutting it in half. Remove the core, then thinly slice the cabbage into fine shreds. You can use a sharp knife or a food processor to do this. The goal is to achieve a fine, even shred that mimics the texture of KFC’s coleslaw.
2. Grate the Carrot: Peel and grate the carrot using a box grater or a food processor. You want the pieces to be fine so they blend seamlessly with the cabbage.
3. Combine Cabbage and Carrots: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrots. Toss them together to evenly distribute the vegetables.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

4. Mix the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, pepper, and mustard powder. The sugar is key to getting that signature sweet flavor, while the vinegar and lemon juice give the dressing its tang. Taste the dressing and adjust the sweetness or acidity to your preference.
5. Blend the Dressing: Once the dressing ingredients are thoroughly mixed and smooth, pour it over the shredded cabbage and carrot mixture.

Step 3: Toss and Chill

6. Toss the Coleslaw: Using a spatula or large spoon, toss the cabbage and carrot mixture in the dressing until everything is evenly coated. Be gentle to ensure that the cabbage stays crisp and the dressing is evenly distributed.
7. Chill: For best results, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 1 to 2 hours before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and gives the cabbage time to soften slightly, enhancing the texture. If you have the time, making it the day before and letting it sit overnight will really allow the flavors to develop.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

8. Serve: After the coleslaw has chilled and the flavors have had time to come together, give it one final toss and serve. The creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet coleslaw is the perfect side dish for fried chicken, grilled meats, sandwiches, or even a picnic spread.

Tips for Perfecting KFC Coleslaw

• Shred the Cabbage Finely: For the best texture, ensure that the cabbage is shredded very finely. The small pieces help the dressing to coat each piece evenly, creating that familiar smooth texture.
• Use Full-Fat Mayonnaise: To get the creamiest, most authentic flavor, opt for full-fat mayonnaise. Low-fat or fat-free mayonnaise may affect the texture and richness of the dressing.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the coleslaw to chill for at least a couple of hours is crucial. This resting period helps the cabbage absorb the dressing, softening it just enough to make the coleslaw creamy and flavorful without losing its crunch.
• Adjust Sweetness and Tang: If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, add a little more sugar, or for a more tangy flavor, increase the amount of vinegar or lemon juice. Adjusting these elements to your taste will help you get the perfect balance.
• Add More Vegetables: If you want to mix things up a little, you can add finely diced celery, red onion, or bell pepper for extra crunch and flavor. Keep in mind, though, that the classic KFC version is quite simple, so don’t go overboard with additional vegetables if you’re aiming for authenticity.

Why We Love the Famous KFC Coleslaw Recipe

There’s no denying the appeal of KFC coleslaw. Its combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors makes it a perfect complement to so many dishes, especially fried chicken. Whether it’s served as a side dish at a cookout or as a topping for a BBQ sandwich, KFC coleslaw is a comforting classic that’s loved by many.

The beauty of this homemade version is that it’s quick, easy, and allows you to make the coleslaw just the way you like it. And while KFC’s coleslaw has become iconic, there’s something special about recreating this beloved recipe in your own kitchen. The ability to control the sweetness, tang, and texture means you can make it truly your own, while still keeping the signature flavor that makes this coleslaw so famous.

Whether you’re making a batch for a family dinner, a summer barbecue, or just because you can’t resist the craving for that creamy crunch, The Famous KFC Coleslaw is the kind of dish that’s sure to disappear from the table in no time. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll soon be wondering why you ever bought coleslaw from the store again!