KOTAS are the ultimate Mzansi street food.
Some call it sphatlho, skhambane, or bunny chow, depending on your geographical location in Mzansi.
The name of this delicacy is derived from the size of bread when cut into four equal pieces.
Where can one get the best kota?
Soweto residents claim their township is the best place to get the best of this delicious meal. To back up this, an entrepreneur from Meadowlands, Soweto, opened his kitchen for SNL24 to demonstrate his skills in assembling a kota.
Tsakane Mabaso (41) is a self-trained cook who quit his job to follow his cooking passion.
He is unconventional and doesn’t follow a well-known kota recipe to serve his customers. He used to buy this snack everywhere he went to redefine it.
“There have been regrets, especially when the sales were down. I would soldier on, keep frying and experimenting with sauces and mixing them to get a unique taste. I have found my secret, and it is a secret,” he chuckled.
Is this the best kota in Joburg?
Customer Thapelo Koloi (25) jumped into the conversation as he was enjoying a Quantum kota with five of his friends: “Yes. I like Bro Tsakane because he’s local but, yes, this is the best. I have had Kota in every corner of Soweto, but this loaf is the best,” said Thapelo.
What makes a good kota? Tumelo Molefe (23) from Meadowlands said: “I want chips, atchar, polonies russian, vianna, eggs, and anything tasty, especially cheese and barbeque and mustard sauces.”
Is this snack healthy? It's certainly not a weight-loss food option!
A study by the University of Johannesburg has addressed the need to highlight the need for consumers to be aware of the health risks associated with eating street food. It has also advised street vendors to be mindful of ingredients used to try and outshine competitors.
Most vendors have added a salad, including lettuce, tomatoes, and onions to their menu.
Furthermore, the University of Limpopo has highlighted the risks posed by exposure to cheap and unhealthy food such as kota, fries (chips) savoury and sweet snacks.
Where do you buy your favourite kota? Let us know in the comment box below!
