Bunny Chow

History and Cultural Significance

Bunny Chow traces its roots back to Durban, a city with a vibrant Indian community in South Africa. It was first created by Indian immigrant laborers who needed a portable and filling meal during their long work hours.

Originally, Bunny Chow consisted of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, often vegetarian or with chicken or mutton.

This dish has become an essential part of South African cuisine, symbolizing the country's multiculturalism and unity.

Recipe

Ingredients (serves 4)

• 4 small round loaves of bread (preferably unsliced)
• 500g boneless chicken or mutton, cubed (vegetarian options: chickpeas or lentils)
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ginger paste
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons curry powder (mild or hot, as per your preference)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro (coriander), chopped (for garnish)

Preparation

1. Begin by hollowing out the round loaves of bread, ensuring to leave a sturdy shell to hold the curry. Keep the removed bread for dipping or as an accompaniment.
2. In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. Add the minced garlic and ginger paste to the pan and cook for another minute.
4. Incorporate the tomatoes and cook until they break down and release their juices.
5. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric powder, and paprika (if desired). Cook for a couple of minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
6. Add the cubed chicken or mutton (or vegetarian alternative) to the pan and cook until it is browned on all sides.
7. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, season with salt, and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook on low heat for approximately 30 minutes, or until the meat is tender (vegetarian options will require less cooking time).
8. Once the curry is ready, spoon it into the hollowed-out bread loaves, ensuring a generous amount of sauce and meat in each. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro for added freshness.
9. Serve the Bunny Chow hot, with the lid of the bread loaf placed back on top or on the side, accompanied by the reserved bread pieces for dipping.

Special Equipment Needed

No special equipment is required for preparing Bunny Chow. A large pan, a sharp knife for hollowing out the bread, and basic kitchen utensils are sufficient.

Serving Suggestions

Bunny Chow is traditionally eaten with your hands, savoring the delicious combination of bread and curry. Serve it alongside sambals, which are condiments like grated carrot, diced tomato, chopped onion, and banana slices, each seasoned with a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of salt.

These add a refreshing crunch and tangy contrast to the rich curry flavors. Pair your Bunny Chow with a South African beverage like a cold Castle Lager or a refreshing rooibos iced tea.

Nutritional Value

The nutritional value of Bunny Chow varies based on the choice of meat or vegetarian alternative. The dish is a good source of protein and dietary fiber. To make it healthier, consider using whole wheat bread and lean meat cuts or plant-based proteins like chickpeas or lentils.

Conclusion

Bunny Chow is not just a delicious street food; it represents the cultural melting pot of South Africa. The combination of Indian spices and South African ingredients creates a unique and mouthwatering culinary experience.

Prepare this dish for your friends and family, and transport them to the streets of Durban with every bite. Indulge in the rich flavors and celebrate the multiculturalism that has made Bunny Chow a beloved dish around the world. Enjoy!