Bunny Chow, the fast food of South Africa

It's easy to find burgers in South Africa. Ditto with french fries (called chips here). I've also eaten some delicious tacos that would be right at home in California. But this country's most famous fast food is one that is uniquely its own invention: bunny chow.

I assumed initially that bunny chow would contain, well, bunnies. But no, the main elements of this particular dish are 1) a hollowed out loaf of white bread standing on its side like a glorious carb tower, and 2) some form of curry swimming inside. The version pictured is mutton, but I've seen many varieties offered at restaurants everywhere. The only utensil needed is your hands.

The exact origins of bunny chow are unknown. There are myths that it was invented during the Great Depression when people were looking for a cheap meal, or during apartheid when non-whites had to order take-out instead of eating at restaurants.

But there is consensus that it was invented among the South African Indians, who were brought here in waves starting first as slaves and later as indentured workers to work the sugarcane fields (and then as paid passengers who voluntarily immigrated). Many settled around Durban, now the third largest city in South Africa that is home to a huge Indian population and considered the epicenter of bunny chow-dom. The name supposedly comes from Bania, which refers to an Indian caste comprised of merchants and traders.

This stuff is delicious and very filling. Bread is the perfect delivery vehicle and mop for curry. Even a quarter of a bunny chow is enough for one meal, with a mandatory nap afterwards.