Description
This classic KFC-style coleslaw is a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet side dish made with finely shredded green cabbage and carrot, tossed in a rich dressing of mayonnaise, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and a hint of celery seed. Perfectly chilled and ready in minutes, it’s a refreshing complement to fried chicken and other main dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/4 cup shredded carrot
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon celery seed (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: In a large bowl, finely shred the green cabbage and add the shredded carrot. Toss them together to combine evenly.
- Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, granulated sugar, salt, pepper, and celery seed if using. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
- Combine dressing and vegetables: Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill the coleslaw: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 2 hours. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to soften slightly.
- Serve: After chilling, give the coleslaw a quick toss again, serve chilled, and enjoy as a delicious side to your favorite meals.
Notes
- For best results, shred the cabbage finely as in the original KFC coleslaw.
- Allowing the coleslaw to chill for a full 2 hours helps marry the flavors and improves texture.
- Celery seed is optional but adds an authentic touch to the traditional recipe.
- If you prefer a tangier coleslaw, you can add a little more apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to taste.
- The recipe can be made a day ahead and kept covered in the refrigerator for even better flavor.
