Southern Africa · Street food
Walkie Talkies (Braised Spiced Chicken Feet and Heads)
Gelatinous chicken feet and heads slow-braised in a deeply spiced, fragrant tomato curry gravy until fork-tender and rich.
The story
Born out of economic resilience in South Africa's vibrant urban townships such as Soweto and Alexandra, Walkie Talkies are an iconic street delicacy enjoyed during lively afternoon and evening social gatherings. Roadside vendors simmer these off-cuts in massive cast-iron pots over open braai coals, serving them steaming hot with stiff maize pap. Technically, the high collagen content in the feet requires an initial cleansing blanch and a long, gentle braise to break tough connective tissue down into a rich, lip-coating gelatin without tearing the skin.
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