Description
This KFC-style coleslaw is a creamy, sweet, and tangy classic that replicates the iconic flavor of everyone’s favorite fast-food side. Made with a blend of finely chopped cabbage, carrot, and a smooth, rich dressing, it’s the perfect complement to BBQs, fried chicken, picnics, or any casual meal where a refreshing side dish is needed.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Coleslaw Mix
- 8 cups finely diced cabbage (or one 16 oz bag of coleslaw mix)
- 1/4 cup shredded carrot (omit if using mix that includes carrot)
For the Dressing
- 1 tablespoon onion, finely grated
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup buttermilk, well shaken
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the grated onion, sugar, mayonnaise, buttermilk, whole milk, white vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Continue whisking until the dressing is completely smooth and well-blended.
- Add the Vegetables: Add the finely diced cabbage and shredded carrot to the bowl with the dressing. If you’re using a bagged coleslaw mix with carrots included, you can skip adding extra carrot. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. For the best flavor and texture, let it chill overnight to give the flavors time to mingle and develop.
- Serve: Before serving, give the coleslaw a good stir to redistribute the dressing and drain off any excess liquid if needed. Serve the coleslaw cold as a refreshing side dish.
Notes
- Finely chopping the cabbage gives the coleslaw its classic, authentic texture.
- Letting the coleslaw chill overnight deepens the flavor and allows the dressing to soften the cabbage.
- For best results, use fresh lemon juice and buttermilk for a tangy kick.
- This coleslaw pairs especially well with BBQ, grilled meats, or fried chicken.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side-dishes
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 8mg