South African Street Food Delights

Bunny Chow

Originating from Durban, Bunny Chow is a must-try South African street food. It consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with a flavorful curry, typically mutton, chicken, or beans. The bread soaks up the curry, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.

Recipe:

• Prepare your favorite curry (mutton, chicken, or beans).
• Cut a loaf of bread in half and hollow out the center.
• Fill the hollowed bread with the curry.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

For a richer experience, try adding a dollop of chutney or a sprinkle of fresh coriander.

Gatsby

The Gatsby is a Cape Town classic, a large sandwich filled with chips, polony (a type of sausage), slap chips (thick-cut fries), and a variety of sauces. It's typically shared among friends and family, making it a communal and satisfying meal. Variations include steak, chicken, and seafood fillings.

Recipe:

• Cut a long roll of bread lengthwise.
• Layer with slap chips, polony slices, and your choice of fillings (steak, chicken, fish).
• Drizzle with sauces like vinegar, peri-peri, and mayonnaise.
• Serve immediately and share!

Don't be shy with the sauces – they are key to the authentic Gatsby experience!

Walkie Talkies

Walkie Talkies, a popular street food snack across South Africa, consist of grilled or deep-fried chicken feet (walkies) and heads (talkies). Seasoned with spices and often served with a spicy sauce, they are a unique and adventurous culinary experience.

Preparation:

1. Clean the chicken feet and heads thoroughly.
2. Boil them until tender.
3. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and other desired spices.
4. Grill or deep-fry until golden brown.
5. Serve with a spicy chakalaka or peri-peri sauce.

While they might not be for the faint of heart, Walkie Talkies offer a distinctive taste of South African street food culture.

Vetkoek

Vetkoek, meaning "fat cake" in Afrikaans, are deep-fried dough pockets, similar to doughnuts but savory. They are often filled with seasoned mince, cheese, or jam, making them a versatile and delicious snack or light meal, found at nearly every street corner.

Recipe:

• Prepare a dough using flour, yeast, water, and salt.
• Let the dough rise until doubled in size.
• Divide the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly.
• Deep-fry in hot oil until golden brown and puffed up.
• Fill with mince, cheese, or jam.

Vetkoek are best enjoyed fresh and warm.

Kota

Kota, a popular street food in Gauteng, is similar to a Gatsby but uses a quarter loaf of bread. It's layered with chips, polony, egg, cheese, and various sauces, creating a hearty and affordable meal.

Preparation:

1. Cut a quarter loaf of bread.
2. Layer with chips, polony, fried egg, cheese slices, and sauces (e.g., atchar, mayonnaise, chili sauce).
3. Assemble the kota for a colourful street food sensation.

Each vendor adds their own unique twist, making every Kota a delightful surprise.