KFC-Style Coleslaw
KFC-Style Coleslaw is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 180 calories per serving. Recipe by Morris Time Cooking on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 25 min
Cost: $2.83 total, $0.71 per serving
Ingredients
- 3.5 cups Green Cabbage (shredded, about 1/4 of a medium head)
- 0.25 cup Carrot (shredded, half of a small carrot)
- 0.25 cup White Onion (finely diced, half of a small onion)
- 0.5 cup Mayonnaise (regular, full‑fat)
- 0.25 cup Whole Milk (full‑fat)
- 0.25 cup Buttermilk (cultured buttermilk)
- 2.5 tbsp White Vinegar (distilled)
- 1 lime Lime Juice (freshly squeezed)
- 0.75 cup Granulated Sugar (white sugar)
- 0.25 tsp Salt (kosher or table salt)
- 0.125 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground, to taste)
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
Shred the cabbage, grate the carrot, and finely dice the white onion. Place all vegetables in a large bowl.
Time: PT5M
Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl whisk together mayonnaise, whole milk, buttermilk, white vinegar, lime juice, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Time: PT5M
Combine Vegetables and Dressing
Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables. Toss gently until every piece is evenly coated.
Time: PT2M
Chill (Optional)
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve cold.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: 4°C
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 180
- Protein
- 2g
- Carbohydrates
- 20g
- Fat
- 10g
- Fiber
- 2g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Allergens: Egg, Milk
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Green Cabbage: Napa cabbage, Savoy cabbage
- Instead of Carrot: Parsnip, Radish
- Instead of White Onion: Red onion, Shallot
- Instead of Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt, Sour cream
- Instead of Whole Milk: 2% milk, Almond milk
- Instead of Buttermilk: Milk + 1 tsp lemon juice, Plain yogurt
- Instead of White Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar
- Instead of Lime Juice: Lemon juice
- Instead of Granulated Sugar: Honey, Agave syrup
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper
Equipment Needed
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Whisk or Spoon
- Serving Spoon
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Shredding the cabbage thinly to maintain crunch.
- Whisking the dressing until fully emulsified.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Rinse shredded cabbage in ice water and spin dry for extra crunch.
- A pinch of celery seed or mustard powder adds an authentic fast‑food coleslaw note.
- Use full‑fat dairy for the richest texture.
Troubleshooting
Dressing is too watery.
Add an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise to thicken; whisk again.
Cabbage becomes soggy after chilling.
Drain excess liquid before serving or add a pinch more salt to draw out moisture earlier, then pat dry.
Flavor is bland.
Adjust with a little more lime juice, salt, or a pinch of celery seed for authentic KFC flavor.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture will become watery.
Room temperature: Do not leave out longer than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the dressing a day ahead and store it refrigerated; combine with vegetables just before serving.
- Shred the cabbage and store in a sealed bag with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of KFC‑Style Coleslaw in American cuisine?
Coleslaw has been a staple side dish in the United States since the 19th century, originally a simple cabbage salad. KFC popularized a sweeter, creamier version that pairs perfectly with fried chicken, making it an iconic accompaniment in fast‑food and Southern home cooking.
What are the traditional regional variations of coleslaw in American cuisine?
In the South, coleslaw often includes a sweet mayo‑based dressing with sugar and vinegar, while the Midwest may favor a vinegar‑heavy, creamy‑less version. The Pacific Northwest sometimes adds apples or raisins for extra texture.
How is KFC‑Style Coleslaw traditionally served in the United States?
It is typically served chilled in a small bowl alongside a bucket of fried chicken, as part of a combo meal, or on the side of a barbecue spread. The salad is eaten with a fork or spoon and provides a cool, tangy contrast to hot, crispy chicken.
What occasions or celebrations is KFC‑Style Coleslaw traditionally associated with in American culture?
Coleslaw appears at family picnics, backyard barbecues, holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving, and of course at fast‑food meals. Its easy make‑ahead nature makes it popular for pot‑luck events.
What other American dishes pair well with KFC‑Style Coleslaw?
It pairs beautifully with fried chicken, pork ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, baked beans, cornbread, and even grilled fish. The crisp acidity balances rich, fatty proteins.
What makes KFC‑Style Coleslaw special or unique in American cuisine?
The combination of sweet sugar, tangy lime juice, and creamy dairy creates a distinctive sweet‑sour profile that is richer than traditional vinegar‑only slaws, reflecting KFC’s signature flavor balance.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making KFC‑Style Coleslaw?
Common errors include over‑mixing, which can make the cabbage soggy, using too much liquid in the dressing, and not chilling the salad long enough for the flavors to meld. Follow the measured ratios and chill before serving.
Why does this KFC‑Style Coleslaw recipe use both milk and buttermilk in the dressing?
Milk adds richness while buttermilk contributes a subtle tang and helps emulsify the dressing, creating the smooth, velvety texture characteristic of KFC’s version.
Can I make KFC‑Style Coleslaw ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. Store the shredded vegetables separately, then combine just before serving to maintain crunch. Keep the finished coleslaw in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
What does the YouTube channel Morris Time Cooking specialize in?
The YouTube channel Morris Time Cooking focuses on quick, family‑friendly recipes that replicate popular restaurant and fast‑food dishes at home, often emphasizing easy techniques and budget‑friendly ingredients.
How does the YouTube channel Morris Time Cooking's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
Morris Time Cooking emphasizes step‑by‑step visual clarity, minimal equipment, and clear timing cues, allowing viewers to recreate classic American comfort foods like KFC‑style coleslaw without needing professional kitchen tools.
Last updated: August 21, 2026
