Karen vanBarneveld
Karen vanBarneveld
Bread Bowls Born in Apartheid South Africa: The Story of Bunny Chow
Bread Bowls Born in Apartheid South Africa: The Story of Bunny Chow
Bread Bowls Born in Apartheid South Africa: The Story of Bunny Chow
Monday 18th October 2021
Dive into the fascinating history of Bunny Chow, a South African street food born from cultural adaptation during apartheid.
58 minutes
informative
cultural
historical
light-hearted
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Karen vanBarneveld
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Get the buttons here!Exploring South Africa's Bunny Chow Origins
Episode Overview
- Bunny Chow originated in Durban during apartheid.
- It was designed as a portable meal for Indian laborers.
- The dish uses bread as a container for curry.
- Bunny Chow reflects cultural fusion and adaptation.
- Different cities in South Africa have unique variations.
Bunny Chow is a mess-free alternative to roti and beans, born out of necessity and ingenuity during apartheid.
In this episode of What the Food?, hosts Miles and Andy embark on a journey to explore the origins of Bunny Chow, a unique South African dish that has captivated the curiosity of food enthusiasts worldwide. Bunny Chow, which intriguingly does not contain any rabbit meat, is a dish that emerged in Durban, South Africa, during a period marked by significant social and political change.
The history of Bunny Chow is deeply intertwined with the arrival of Indian indentured servants in the 1860s, brought to work in the sugarcane fields. As these workers settled in Durban, they brought with them their culinary traditions, which included dishes like roti and beans. However, due to the grueling nature of their work and the need for a substantial meal that could provide energy throughout the day, Bunny Chow was born.
This innovative meal uses a hollowed-out loaf of bread as a vessel for curry, creating a portable and satisfying dish. Apartheid laws, which restricted people of color from entering certain establishments, further influenced the development of Bunny Chow. By using bread as a container, individuals could enjoy their meals without needing utensils or restaurant access, circumventing the oppressive policies of the time.
Throughout the episode, Miles and Andy discuss various theories on the dish's origin, including its possible invention for Indian caddies at the Royal Durban Golf Course, who needed a mess-free meal they could eat on the go. The hosts also highlight the cultural significance of Bunny Chow as a symbol of resilience and adaptation, reflecting the diverse food culture of South Africa. Listeners are treated to light-hearted banter and anecdotes, adding a humorous touch to the historical narrative.
The episode concludes with Miles and Andy expressing their excitement for future explorations of global cuisines and inviting listeners to engage with the show. Bunny Chow's story is a testament to how food can bridge cultural gaps and evolve under societal pressures, making it not just a culinary curiosity but a significant cultural artifact.