Bunny chow

A South African fast food dish consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry

Bunny chow

A "quarter mutton" bunny with topping
Alternative names
Type	Curry, sandwich, bread bowl
Course	Lunch, dinner, snack
Place of origin	South Africa
Region or state	Durban
Associated national cuisine
Created by	South African Indians
Invented
Cooking time	minutes to minutes
Serving temperature	Hot
Main ingredients	Bread, curry
Ingredients generally used
Variations
Food energy	kcal
Nutritional value	Protein: g, Fat: g, Carbohydrate: g
Glycemic index
Similar dishes
Other information
Website	[ Official website]

A table of hollowed "quarter loaves" to be filled for bunny chow.

Quarter mutton bunny chow in Durban, South Africa

Bunny chow, often referred to simply as a bunny, is a popular South African fast food dish consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry. This dish is particularly associated with the city of Durban, which has a large Indian South African community. Bunny chow is a staple of South African cuisine and is enjoyed by people of all backgrounds.

History

The origins of bunny chow are somewhat unclear, but it is widely believed to have been created in the 1940s in Durban. The dish was likely invented by Indian laborers who needed a convenient way to transport their meals to work. The hollowed-out bread served as a portable container for the curry, making it easy to carry and eat without utensils. The name "bunny chow" is thought to derive from the term "bania," referring to an Indian caste of merchants, combined with "chow," meaning food.

Preparation

Bunny chow is traditionally made using a quarter or half loaf of white bread, although whole loaves can also be used for larger servings. The bread is hollowed out to create a cavity, which is then filled with a spicy curry. The curry can be made with a variety of ingredients, including chicken, lamb, beef, or vegetables, and is typically seasoned with a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili.

The dish is often served with the removed bread "lid" on the side, which can be used to scoop up the curry. Bunny chow is usually eaten with the hands, making it a casual and communal dining experience.

Variations

While the traditional bunny chow is filled with curry, there are many variations of the dish that reflect the diverse culinary influences in South Africa. Some popular variations include:

• Vegetarian bunny chow: Made with a variety of vegetables such as potatoes, peas, and carrots, often in a spicy tomato-based sauce.
• Chicken bunny chow: Featuring tender pieces of chicken cooked in a rich curry sauce.
• Lamb bunny chow: Made with succulent lamb pieces, offering a hearty and flavorful option.

Cultural Significance

Bunny chow is more than just a meal; it is a cultural icon in South Africa. It represents the fusion of Indian and South African culinary traditions and is a symbol of the country's multicultural heritage. The dish is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds and is a common sight at street food markets, festivals, and family gatherings.

Related pages

• Durban
• Indian South African
• South African cuisine
• Curry