Introduction
Bunny Chow is one of South Africa’s most iconic street foods, originating in the Indian community of Durban. It consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with a rich, spicy curry. The name “Bunny” comes from the word Bania, referring to the Indian traders who are believed to have created this portable and satisfying meal. This version features a flavorful Durban-style chicken curry, but lamb, beef, or mutton can also be used.
Ingredients for Chicken Curry
- 1 kg chicken, curry cut
- 2 onions, chopped
- 2 potatoes, chopped
- 2–3 chillies, sliced
- 2–3 tomatoes, pureed or 1 can tomato paste
- 5–6 garlic cloves, chopped
- 2–3 bay leaves
- 3–4 cardamom pods
- 400–500 ml chicken stock
- ½ cup oil
- Water, as required
- Salt to taste
Dry Spice Mix
- 2 tsp ginger powder
- 2 tsp coriander powder
- 1–2 tbsp meat curry powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 2 tsp Shilpa’s Masala Mill Kashmiri Chilli Powder
- 1 tbsp red chilli powder or Shilpa’s Masala Mill Chicken/Mutton Masala
- 1 tsp fennel powder
- ¼ tsp cloves powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp cinnamon powder
Instructions
- Heat oil in a deep pot.
- Add chopped garlic, bay leaves, and cardamom pods.
- Sauté until fragrant.
- Add the chicken pieces and fry for 2–3 minutes.
- Add the chopped onions.
- Mix in the prepared dry spice blend and salt.
- Add the sliced chillies.
- Cook for another 2–3 minutes.
- Pour in the tomato puree and chicken stock.
- Mix well.
- Cover and slow cook for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is around 70% cooked.
- Add the chopped potatoes.
- Cover again and cook for another 20–30 minutes until the chicken and potatoes are fully cooked.
- Continue cooking until oil is visible on the surface.
- Your authentic Durban-style Chicken Curry is ready.
How to Serve Bunny Chow
- Take a loaf of bread or large buns.
- Slice off the top.
- Hollow out the center to create a bread bowl.
- Fill generously with the hot chicken curry.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a mixed salad.
Chef’s Tip
- If using lamb, beef, or mutton, add star anise and mustard seeds to the spice mixture.
- These meats require a much longer slow-cooking time than chicken.
- For the authentic South African experience, Bunny Chow is traditionally eaten with your hands.
Spice Level: 🌶
