When it comes to coleslaw, few people can resist the creamy, tangy, and crunchy sides served at Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) restaurants around the world. The secret to making coleslaw like Colonel Sanders lies not only in the ingredients but also in the preparation method and a dash of nostalgia. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of KFC’s coleslaw, the original recipe, and provide a step-by-step guide to making it at home.
A Brief History of KFC’s Coleslaw
Coleslaw has been an integral part of KFC’s menu since the early days of the franchise. The story goes that Colonel Harland Sanders, the founder of KFC, perfected his coleslaw recipe in the 1950s, alongside his famous fried chicken recipe. The original recipe was a closely guarded secret, known only to a select few in the company. Over the years, the recipe has undergone slight modifications, but the essence of the original remains the same.
The Original Recipe
In the 1980s, a former KFC employee revealed the original coleslaw recipe in a cookbook. The recipe called for a mixture of shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, buttermilk, sugar, vinegar, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. The proportions of the ingredients were carefully balanced to create the signature flavor and texture.
Here’s the original recipe for your reference:
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
The Secret to Making Coleslaw Like Colonel Sanders
While the original recipe provides a solid foundation, the key to making coleslaw like Colonel Sanders lies in the preparation method and a few subtle tweaks. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create an authentic KFC-style coleslaw at home:
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
To start, you’ll need to shred the cabbage into fine strips. You can use a food processor with a shredding attachment or do it manually with a sharp knife. Remove any excess water from the cabbage by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel and squeezing it gently. This step is crucial in preventing a soggy coleslaw.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, sugar, vinegar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until smooth. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more sugar, vinegar, or pepper to suit your taste.
Step 3: Combine the Cabbage and Dressing
Add the shredded cabbage to the dressing and mix until the cabbage is evenly coated. Be gentle when mixing to avoid bruising the cabbage and making it soggy.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, give the coleslaw a good stir and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Tips and Variations
To take your coleslaw game to the next level, try these tips and variations:
- Use a variety of cabbages: Experiment with different types of cabbage, such as red cabbage, green cabbage, or a combination of both. Each type of cabbage will give your coleslaw a unique flavor and texture.
- Add some crunch: Mix in some chopped onions, carrots, or bell peppers to add texture and flavor to your coleslaw.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some diced jalapeños to give your coleslaw an extra kick.
- Make it creamy: Add some sour cream or Greek yogurt to the dressing for an extra rich and creamy coleslaw.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Cabbage | 2 cups, shredded |
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup |
| Buttermilk | 1/2 cup |
| Sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper | Pinch |
Conclusion
Making coleslaw like Colonel Sanders requires attention to detail, patience, and a commitment to using high-quality ingredients. By following the original recipe and incorporating the tips and variations mentioned above, you’ll be well on your way to creating an authentic KFC-style coleslaw at home. So go ahead, get creative, and serve your coleslaw alongside your favorite fried chicken dishes or as a crunchy side to your next barbecue.
Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first batch doesn’t turn out exactly as you hoped. Keep trying, and soon you’ll be the master of coleslaw like Colonel Sanders.
What is the secret to making coleslaw like Colonel Sanders?
The secret to making coleslaw like Colonel Sanders lies in the combination of ingredients and the preparation method. Colonel Sanders’ coleslaw recipe is a closely guarded secret, but it’s been revealed that it contains a unique blend of spices, herbs, and other ingredients that set it apart from other coleslaw recipes.
One of the key ingredients in Colonel Sanders’ coleslaw is a special type of powdered sugar that adds a unique sweetness and flavor to the slaw. Additionally, the slaw is made with a combination of shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and a variety of spices, including paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. The ingredients are mixed together in a specific way to create a creamy, tangy slaw that complements the famous fried chicken perfectly.
What type of cabbage is best for making coleslaw like Colonel Sanders?
The type of cabbage used in Colonel Sanders’ coleslaw recipe is a key factor in its unique flavor and texture. The original recipe calls for a specific type of cabbage known as “green cabbage,” which is a milder variety than other types of cabbage.
Green cabbage has a sweeter, less bitter flavor than other types of cabbage, which makes it ideal for coleslaw. It’s also crunchier and holds its texture better, which helps the slaw to maintain its freshness and flavor. When selecting cabbage for your slaw, look for tight, compact heads with no signs of browning or wilting.
How do I shred the cabbage for coleslaw like Colonel Sanders?
Shredding the cabbage is an important step in making coleslaw like Colonel Sanders. The cabbage should be shredded very finely, almost to the point of being pulverized. This helps to create a smooth, creamy texture in the finished slaw.
To shred the cabbage, use a food processor or a mandoline to slice it into very thin strips. Then, use a knife or a pair of kitchen shears to chop the strips into even smaller pieces. Be careful not to over-process the cabbage, as this can make it become mushy and lose its texture.
What is the correct ratio of mayonnaise to cabbage in coleslaw like Colonel Sanders?
The correct ratio of mayonnaise to cabbage in coleslaw like Colonel Sanders is a crucial factor in achieving the right consistency and flavor. The original recipe calls for a generous amount of mayonnaise, which helps to bind the ingredients together and add richness and creaminess to the slaw.
A good rule of thumb is to use about 1 part mayonnaise to 2 parts cabbage. This will create a slaw that is creamy but still has a good balance of flavors. Be careful not to add too much mayonnaise, as this can make the slaw too rich and overpowering.
How do I add flavor to coleslaw like Colonel Sanders?
Adding flavor to coleslaw like Colonel Sanders is a matter of balance and restraint. The original recipe calls for a carefully calibrated blend of spices, herbs, and other ingredients that add depth and complexity to the slaw.
To add flavor to your coleslaw, start with a basic blend of spices such as paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Then, add a splash of vinegar and a pinch of sugar to balance out the flavors. Finally, add a dash of salt and pepper to taste. Be careful not to over-season the slaw, as this can overpower the other ingredients.
How long does coleslaw like Colonel Sanders keep in the refrigerator?
Coleslaw like Colonel Sanders can keep for several days in the refrigerator, provided it is stored properly. The slaw should be kept in an airtight container and refrigerated at a temperature of 40°F or below.
Ideally, the slaw should be consumed within 3 to 5 days of making it, as it will be at its freshest and most flavorful. After this time, the slaw may start to lose its texture and flavor, although it should still be safe to eat.
Can I make coleslaw like Colonel Sanders ahead of time?
Yes, coleslaw like Colonel Sanders can be made ahead of time, although it’s best to make it just before serving for optimal flavor and texture. If you need to make it ahead of time, it’s best to prepare the ingredients separately and then assemble the slaw just before serving.
To make the slaw ahead of time, prepare the cabbage, mayonnaise, and spices separately, then store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the slaw. This will help to preserve the freshness and flavor of the ingredients.