Originating from the vibrant street food culture of South Africa, Bunny Chow is a unique and flavorful dish that holds a special place in the hearts of locals and food enthusiasts alike. Despite its name, Bunny Chow has nothing to do with rabbits; it’s a dish where a hollowed-out loaf of bread is filled with a spicy and aromatic curry. Originally created in the Indian community of Durban, this dish has evolved into a South African culinary classic. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey with Bunny Chow and experience the comforting combination of curry and bread that has become a beloved tradition.
Ingredients:
- 4 small round loaves of unsliced white bread (or a large loaf for sharing)
- 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken, lamb, or vegetables (cubed)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2-3 cardamom pods
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Bread:
- For individual servings, cut a small, round loaf of bread in half and hollow out the center to create a bowl. Reserve the scooped-out bread for dipping.
- For a communal dish, use a larger loaf and create multiple serving portions.
- Prepare the Curry Base:
- In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and all the spices (curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods). Stir and cook for a couple of minutes until aromatic.
- Add Protein or Vegetables:
- Add cubed chicken, lamb, or vegetables to the pot. Cook until browned.
- Stir in Tomatoes:
- Add chopped tomatoes to the pot and cook until they begin to soften.
- Simmer:
- Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the protein is cooked through and tender.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Season the curry with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the spice level if needed.
- Serve in Bread Bowls:
- Ladle the curry into the hollowed-out bread bowls.
- Garnish and Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately. The scooped-out bread can be used for dipping into the curry.
Bunny Chow is more than just a meal; it’s a communal experience that captures the essence of South African street food. Share this flavorful and comforting dish with friends and family, and savor the unique combination of curry and bread that defines Bunny Chow.