KFC coleslaw is a beloved side dish for many, with its sweet, savory, tangy, and creamy flavor profile. However, the traditional KFC coleslaw is laden with sugar and other ingredients that don't align with a ketogenic lifestyle. This article provides a comprehensive guide to creating a keto-friendly version of KFC coleslaw that captures the nostalgic flavors of the original while keeping the carb count low.
Why Keto KFC Coleslaw?
For those following a ketogenic diet, the high sugar content of traditional KFC coleslaw makes it a no-go. This Keto KFC copycat Coleslaw recipe allows you to indulge in the flavors you love without derailing your diet. It's a quick, easy, and delicious side dish that even non-keto eaters will enjoy. Bring it to a cookout, pack it in your lunch, or serve it as a side with dinner.
Key Ingredients and Their Keto-Friendly Substitutes
Cabbage and Coleslaw Mix
The base of any coleslaw is cabbage. For convenience, a 14oz bag of coleslaw mix can be used, which typically includes green cabbage, red cabbage, and shredded carrots. Alternatively, you can shred your own cabbage using a food processor or a sharp knife. If following a strict keto diet, you may choose to omit the carrots to further reduce the carb content.
The Dressing: Creamy, Tangy, and Sweet
The dressing is where the magic happens. The key to a great keto coleslaw dressing is to balance creaminess, tanginess, and sweetness while keeping the carb count low.
- Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: These provide the creamy base for the dressing. You can use your favorite low-carb mayonnaise, or even substitute with avocado oil mayo for a healthier fat source.
- Vinegar and Lemon Juice: These add the necessary tang. Apple cider vinegar is a popular choice due to its milder flavor, but you can also use lemon juice or other types of vinegar like tarragon vinegar. Some have even experimented with pickle juice!
- Keto-Friendly Sweetener: This is crucial for replicating the sweetness of traditional KFC coleslaw without the added sugar. Erythritol, Monk Fruit Erythritol blend, Plain Monk Fruit, Allulose, and Stevia are all suitable options. Adjust the amount of sweetener to your liking, keeping in mind that different sweeteners have varying levels of sweetness.
- Spices: These add depth and complexity to the dressing. Garlic powder, onion powder, celery seed, sea salt, and black pepper are commonly used. Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste preferences.
The Two "Secrets" to Authentic KFC Coleslaw Flavor
Replicating the exact flavor of KFC coleslaw requires attention to detail. Two critical elements often overlooked are:
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- Celery Seed: This spice adds a hint of earthy, spicy flavor that is essential to the overall taste. Don't skip it!
- Size of the Cabbage: KFC coleslaw is known for its finely chopped cabbage and carrots. This maximizes the surface area for the dressing to coat, resulting in a more flavorful coleslaw. Using a food processor to finely chop the vegetables is highly recommended.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here are two methods for making Keto KFC Coleslaw, one using a food processor and one without:
Method 1: Using a Food Processor
- Rough chop your onion.
- Add all ingredients (except coleslaw mix) to a food processor and pulse to combine.
- Add coleslaw mix to food processor and pulse to combine.
- Store covered in the fridge. Tastes best when refrigerated overnight.
- Enjoy!
Method 2: Without a Food Processor
- Finely chop the onion.
- In a small bowl, add all ingredients except coleslaw mix and whisk to combine.
- Chop coleslaw mix finely for best results, then add to a large bowl. You can skip the chopping, but this really tastes best and most like the KFC version when chopped up.
- Pour the wet ingredient mixture over the coleslaw. Stir to combine.
- Store covered in the fridge. Tastes best when refrigerated overnight.
- Enjoy!
Variations and Add-Ins
- Bacon Lover's: Crumble some crispy bacon and mix it into the coleslaw for a smoky and savory flavor.
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy some heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the coleslaw a spicy kick. Adjust the amount to your desired level of spiciness.
- Creamy Mustard: Incorporate some Dijon mustard or whole grain mustard into the dressing for a tangy and slightly zesty twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Keto KFC Coleslaw is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of keto-friendly meals. Here are some ideas:
- Keto BBQ: Serve it alongside keto bbq ribs, bbq pulled pork, or bacon-wrapped chicken kabobs.
- Keto "Fast Food": Pair it with oven-fried wings or air fryer wings for a healthier take on a classic fast-food meal.
- Picnics and Cookouts: Bring it to your next gathering as a refreshing and delicious side dish.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days, but it's best enjoyed within the first 1-2 days for optimal taste and texture.
Nutritional Information
The nutritional information for this recipe will vary based on the specific brands and ingredients used. However, this low carb keto coleslaw recipe has approximately 2g net carbs per serving. When calculating net carbs, remember to subtract fiber and sugar alcohols (like erythritol) from the total carbohydrate count.
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Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
tags: #kfc #coleslaw #keto #ingredients