How to Make the Perfect Bunny Chow

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Introduction

Bunny Chow, a beloved South African street food, originated in the vibrant city of Durban. This hearty dish consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with a flavorful and spicy curry, making it a perfect comfort food. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or craving a delicious and satisfying meal, Bunny Chow is a must-try. Here’s how to make the perfect Bunny Chow at home.

Ingredients

For the curry:

  • 500g beef or lamb, cubed
  • 2 large onions, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 2 large tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup beef or vegetable stock
  • 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the bread:

  • 1 large loaf of white bread (unsliced)
  • Fresh coriander (cilantro) for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Curry
    • Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are golden brown.
    • Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
    • Stir in the curry powder, ground turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Cook the spices for about 2 minutes to release their flavors.
    • Add the cubed meat to the pot and brown it on all sides.
    • Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they start to break down and form a sauce.
    • Pour in the beef or vegetable stock, add the cubed potatoes, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the meat and potatoes are tender.
    • Add the frozen peas and cook for another 5 minutes. Season the curry with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Prepare the Bread
    • While the curry is simmering, prepare the bread. Cut the loaf of bread into quarters.
    • Hollow out the inside of each quarter, leaving a thick crust around the edges to hold the curry. Be careful not to cut through the bottom.
  3. Assemble the Bunny Chow
    • Once the curry is ready, spoon it generously into the hollowed-out bread quarters.
    • Garnish with fresh coriander.
  4. Serve and Enjoy
    • Serve the Bunny Chow with a side salad or chutney for a complete meal.
    • Enjoy this delicious South African dish with family and friends.

Tips for the Perfect Bunny Chow

  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of curry powder and other spices to suit your taste preferences.
  • Bread: Traditional Bunny Chow is made with white bread, but you can use whole wheat or other varieties if you prefer.
  • Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable stock.

Conclusion

Bunny Chow is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings a taste of South Africa to your kitchen. Its rich history and bold flavors make it a favorite among many. With this recipe, you can recreate this iconic dish at home and enjoy a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

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