Bunny Chow

Among the myriad culinary delights found on the streets of South Africa, Bunny Chow stands out as a uniquely South African creation that has won the hearts and palates of locals and travelers alike. Bunny Chow is a dish born in Durban, a coastal city famous for its melting pot of cultures and cuisines.

At its core, Bunny Chow is a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with a curry of your choice. The bread loaf, usually a quarter or half of a round or elongated loaf, becomes the edible vessel for the flavorful and often spicy curry. The idea of using bread as an edible bowl was a brilliant and practical invention, allowing people to savor every last bit of the delicious curry while enjoying a meal that was both filling and portable.

The origins of Bunny Chow are steeped in history, dating back to the 1940s. It is believed to have been created as an affordable and satisfying meal for Indian laborers in Durban who faced food and financial constraints. Over the years, it has evolved into a South African culinary icon, offering a fusion of Indian, Zulu, and Malay influences. Bunny Chow comes in various forms, ranging from vegetarian and chicken to lamb or beef, with curry flavors that can be mild or fiery.

The aroma of curry fills the air, and the sight of these edible bread bowls being prepared is a spectacle. The first bite is a journey into a world of flavors, with the bread soaking up the savory curry, creating a mouthwatering harmony of textures and tastes.