Mastering KFC Coleslaw: The Buttermilk Dressing Recipe

Craving that unmistakable, refreshing taste of KFC’s famous coleslaw? Look no further! This ultimate KFC-Style Coleslaw Recipe with Buttermilk Dressing perfectly captures the beloved restaurant flavor, delivering a dish that is light, creamy, sweet, and tangy. It’s not just a side; it’s a staple, destined to become your go-to recipe for everything from casual weeknight dinners to the grandest summer picnics and barbecues. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a homemade coleslaw that tastes just like the real deal, or perhaps even better!

Why This Homemade Coleslaw Will Be Your New Favorite

There’s a reason why some dishes become iconic, and KFC coleslaw is definitely one of them. Its unique balance of flavors makes it incredibly addictive. But why should you make this particular recipe at home?

• Authentic KFC Flavor: This recipe has been meticulously developed to replicate the exact sweet, tangy, and creamy profile you adore from the fast-food chain. It’s a nostalgic taste experience you can now enjoy anytime.
• Effortless Preparation: Don’t let the delicious outcome fool you; this coleslaw is incredibly easy to prepare. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for cooks of all skill levels, even those new to the kitchen.
• The Ultimate Versatile Side Dish: Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, preparing a potluck dish, or simply looking for a refreshing accompaniment to your weeknight meal, this coleslaw fits the bill. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fried chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, and much more.
• Freshness You Control: Making coleslaw from scratch means you choose the freshest ingredients. You’ll taste the difference in every vibrant, crunchy bite, free from any preservatives or artificial flavors often found in store-bought versions.
• Customizable to Your Liking: While designed to mimic KFC, this recipe also offers a fantastic foundation for experimentation. Feel free to add your own twist to make it uniquely yours (more on this below!).

Having tested numerous coleslaw recipes over the years, this one consistently emerges as the undisputed champion. It evokes fond childhood memories of carryout dinners and delightful homemade spreads. Be warned: it’s so good, you might find yourself wanting to devour the entire batch! But if you can resist, it’s an incredible complement to hearty dishes like pulled pork.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Coleslaw and Dressing

The magic of a truly great coleslaw lies in the harmonious blend of its two main components: the crisp cabbage base and the rich, flavorful dressing. While the core ingredients are simple, a few thoughtful additions and preparation techniques can elevate your coleslaw to extraordinary levels. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and how each element contributes to the overall deliciousness:

The Cabbage Base: Crisp and Flavorful

• Green Cabbage: This is the backbone of any classic coleslaw. For that signature KFC texture, aim for finely shredded cabbage. You can shred a whole head yourself using a sharp knife, a mandoline, or a food processor for consistent results.
• Shredded Carrots: Beyond adding a beautiful pop of color, carrots introduce a subtle sweetness and an additional layer of crunch. One medium carrot is usually sufficient.
• Grated or Minced Onion: A small amount of onion provides a crucial savory depth and a slight bite. For those sensitive to strong onion flavor, consider grating it very finely or following our expert tip below to mellow its intensity.
• Optional Additions for Color and Texture:
  • Purple Cabbage: Incorporating some finely shredded purple cabbage not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a slightly different earthy note.
  • Pre-shredded Coleslaw Mix: For ultimate convenience, a couple of bags of pre-shredded coleslaw mix from the grocery store are a fantastic shortcut. Just ensure it’s finely shredded for the KFC authentic texture.

The Creamy Buttermilk Dressing: The Heart of the Flavor

This is where the KFC magic truly happens. Our coleslaw dressing is a simple yet powerful combination of ingredients that creates a perfectly balanced sweet, tangy, and creamy profile:

• Mayonnaise: Forms the rich, creamy base of the dressing, binding all the flavors together. Opt for a good quality mayonnaise for the best results.
• Buttermilk: The star ingredient that delivers that signature tangy kick and a wonderfully smooth consistency. Its slight acidity also helps to tenderize the cabbage slightly without making it soggy.
• Cider Vinegar: Adds another layer of bright tanginess, cutting through the richness of the mayonnaise and buttermilk and enhancing the overall fresh taste.
• Granulated Sugar: Crucial for balancing the acidity and providing the characteristic sweetness that makes KFC coleslaw so appealing. Adjust to your personal preference.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to highlight and round out all the flavors. Start with the recommended amounts and adjust to taste.
• Celery Seed (Highly Recommended!): While not explicitly listed in many “KFC copycat” recipes, celery seed is my personal secret weapon for elevating this coleslaw. It imparts a subtle, earthy, and slightly bitter celery flavor that adds incredible depth and authenticity. Don’t skip it if you want that extra “something”!

Expert Tips for Coleslaw Perfection

Achieving restaurant-quality coleslaw at home is easier than you think, especially with these insider tips:

• Shredding Your Veggies: While pre-shredded coleslaw mix offers convenience, shredding your own cabbage and carrots allows you to control the fineness of the cut. KFC’s coleslaw is known for its very fine shred, which creates a delicate texture and allows the dressing to coat every piece evenly. A food processor with a shredding disc is your best friend here!
• Buttermilk Substitute: No buttermilk on hand? No problem! You can easily make your own. Simply pour one tablespoon of either white vinegar or lemon juice into a one-cup liquid measuring cup. Then, fill the rest of the cup to the one-cup mark with regular milk (any fat percentage will work, but whole milk yields a richer result). Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles. This homemade “buttermilk” will work perfectly in your dressing.
• Taming Raw Onion Flavor: If the sharpness of raw onions is a concern, a quick trick can mellow them out significantly. After grating or mincing your onion, place it in a small bowl of ice water for about 15 minutes. Drain thoroughly, or for grated onion, squeeze excess water out with a paper towel. This process retains the essential onion flavor without the harsh bite.
• Seasoning to Taste: Always taste your dressing and your finished coleslaw before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, and sugar as needed. Some prefer a sweeter coleslaw, while others lean towards more tang. Don’t be afraid to tweak it until it’s perfect for your palate.
• The Celery Seed Advantage: As mentioned, celery seed is a game-changer. It adds an earthy, slightly savory note that rounds out the flavor profile beautifully, making your coleslaw taste more complex and authentic. Trust me on this one!

How to Make KFC-Style Buttermilk Coleslaw: Step-by-Step

Creating this delicious coleslaw is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch every time:

1. Prepare Your Vegetables: Begin by finely shredding your cabbage and carrots. If using a whole head of cabbage, remove any tough outer leaves. For that authentic KFC texture, aim for very fine pieces. Grate or mince your onion (and soak in ice water if desired, as per our expert tip). Measure out all your prepared vegetables into a large mixing bowl.
2. Whisk the Dressing: In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, pepper, and celery seed (if using). Whisk vigorously until the dressing is completely smooth and all the sugar has dissolved. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – this is your chance to get the balance just right.

3. Combine and Toss: Pour the prepared buttermilk dressing over the shredded vegetables in the large mixing bowl. Using a large spoon or your clean hands, gently but thoroughly toss everything together until all the cabbage and carrots are evenly coated with the dressing. Ensure no dry spots remain.
4. Chill for Flavor Development: This step is crucial for the flavors to meld and for the cabbage to slightly tenderize. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. For the absolute best results and deepest flavor, chill for 2-4 hours, or even overnight. Just before serving, give the coleslaw another quick toss to redistribute the dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Coleslaw

Let’s address some common queries about this classic side dish:

What Is the Origin of Coleslaw?

While many of us associate coleslaw with American barbecue and Southern cuisine, its roots stretch back much further than you might imagine. The concept of combining cabbage with a dressing dates to ancient Roman times, where a simple dish of cabbage, vinegar, and eggs was served. However, the name “coleslaw” as we know it today truly emerged from the Dutch. When Dutch settlers arrived near the Hudson River in what is now New York state, they brought with them a dish called “koosla,” which literally translates to “cabbage salad.” This term sounds remarkably similar to our modern “coleslaw” (sometimes spelled “cole slaw”). In the late 1700s, before mayonnaise was a widespread condiment, early versions of coleslaw dressings were typically made with melted butter, oil, and vinegar, showcasing its adaptability throughout history.

Is Coleslaw Healthy?

Coleslaw can indeed offer health benefits, primarily due to its main ingredient: cabbage. Cabbage is an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamins (especially Vitamin C and K), and various minerals, contributing to overall gut health and nutrient intake. Carrots also add vitamins and antioxidants. The “healthiness” of coleslaw largely depends on the dressing. A vinegar-based dressing tends to be lower in calories and fat, while a mayonnaise-based dressing, like the one in this KFC-style recipe, will contribute more fat and calories. Enjoying coleslaw in moderation as part of a balanced diet allows you to benefit from its vegetable content without overdoing the richer dressing components.

What is the Difference Between Coleslaw and Slaw?

The distinction is quite simple: the word “cole” in “coleslaw” comes from the Latin word “caulis,” meaning cabbage. Therefore, by definition, coleslaw must contain cabbage as its primary shredded vegetable. A “slaw,” on the other hand, is a broader term that refers to any salad made from shredded raw vegetables mixed with a dressing. This means you can have broccoli slaw, apple slaw, jicama slaw, or even a mixed vegetable slaw without a single leaf of cabbage. All coleslaws are slaws, but not all slaws are coleslaws!

Customizing Your Homemade Coleslaw: Endless Possibilities

While this recipe aims for the classic KFC flavor, it’s also wonderfully adaptable. Here are some fantastic ideas to shake up your coleslaw and make it your own:

• Add More Herbs: Fresh herbs like finely chopped dill, parsley, or chives can add a refreshing aromatic lift to the creamy dressing. A hint of fresh thyme can also be surprisingly delicious.
• Spice It Up: For a touch of heat, finely mince a jalapeño or serrano pepper and add it to the mix. A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce in the dressing can also do the trick for a “Southwest” kick.
• Fruity Twists: Introduce a delightful sweetness and contrasting texture by adding julienned (thinly sliced) apples, pears, or even mangoes. These fruits complement the creamy dressing beautifully.
• Savory Enhancements:
  • Crumbled Blue Cheese: A small amount of blue cheese offers a salty, pungent creaminess that can be surprisingly good with the sweet and tangy dressing.
  • Crisp Bacon Bits: Homemade or store-bought, bacon bits contribute a smoky, salty umami that makes any side dish irresistible.
• Crunch Factor: Boost the texture with toasted nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds) or sunflower seeds. These add a satisfying crunch and a subtle nutty flavor.
• Dried Fruit Sweetness: For a chewy, sweet counterpoint to the crunchy vegetables, toss in some dried cranberries, raisins, dried cherries, or finely diced dried apricots.
• Global Inspirations:
  • Asian Slaw: Swap a portion of the cider vinegar for rice vinegar, add a dash of sesame oil, some soy sauce, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Include thinly sliced snow peas or mandarins for an authentic touch.
  • Mediterranean Slaw: Add chopped olives, feta cheese, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Your Perfect Coleslaw

This classic buttermilk coleslaw is incredibly versatile and can elevate almost any meal. Here are some ideal pairings:

• Barbecue Classics: It’s a non-negotiable side for Pulled Pork Sandwiches, ribs, brisket, and grilled chicken. The cool, crisp slaw perfectly cuts through the richness of smoky meats.
• Fried Chicken: Just like at KFC, it’s the ultimate companion to crispy fried chicken.
• Burgers and Hot Dogs: Elevate your backyard burger or hot dog experience with a generous scoop of this refreshing slaw.
• Fish and Chips: A lighter, healthier alternative to traditional mushy peas, offering a zesty contrast to fried fish.
• Sandwiches and Wraps: Use it as a crunchy, flavorful filling in wraps or alongside your favorite deli sandwiches.
• Picnics and Potlucks: It’s robust enough to travel well and always a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.

More Delicious Slaw and Salad Recipes to Explore

If you’ve enjoyed this KFC-style coleslaw, you might love exploring other variations of slaws and fresh salads:

• Creamy Apple Slaw from Spend with Pennies: A delightful blend of sweet apples and creamy dressing.
• Spicy Mexican Slaw with Lime and Cilantro from Kalyn’s Kitchen: For those who love a little heat and zest.
• Spicy Mango Slaw from Foodie with Family: An exotic and vibrant choice.
• Asian Cabbage Slaw: Features a distinct Asian-inspired dressing and crunchy noodles.
• Easy Coleslaw Recipe: A simpler, quick preparation for everyday enjoyment.
• Asian Coleslaw: Another take on the popular Asian flavors in a slaw.
• Explore more of our refreshing Salad Recipes for every occasion!

Classic KFC-Style Buttermilk Coleslaw Recipe

This classic buttermilk coleslaw tastes remarkably like the beloved KFC version!

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)

Yield: 8 servings

Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 52 reviews.

Ingredients

• 8 cups finely chopped green cabbage (about 1 medium head, or two 14oz bags of pre-shredded coleslaw mix)
• ¼ cup shredded carrot (from 1 medium carrot)
• 2 tablespoons finely grated or minced onion
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup good quality mayonnaise
• ¼ cup buttermilk
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon celery seed (optional, but highly recommended for authentic flavor)

Instructions

1. Prepare Vegetables: Finely shred cabbage and carrots to your desired size (KFC’s version is very fine). Grate or mince the onion. You can also use pre-packaged coleslaw mix for convenience. Place all prepared vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Dressing: In a separate medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar, salt, black pepper, mayonnaise, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, and celery seed. Whisk thoroughly until the dressing is completely smooth and well combined.
3. Combine and Chill: Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables. Toss well to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (2-4 hours is ideal, or even overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly.
4. Serve: Before serving, give the coleslaw another quick toss. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Notes

• For a shortcut, use 2 bags of pre-shredded coleslaw mix.
• If you don’t have buttermilk, make a quick substitute: add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a measuring cup, then fill to the ¼ cup mark with regular milk. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until slightly curdled.
• To mellow raw onion flavor, soak grated onion in ice water for 15 minutes before adding to the slaw, then drain well.
• Recipe adapted from a friend’s classic.

Nutrition Information:

Amount Per Serving:

• Yield: 8 servings
• Serving Size: 1
• Calories: 169
• Total Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 6mg
• Sodium: 249mg
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 13g
• Protein: 2g

Cuisine: American, Southern

Category: Salads

© Liz Berg