Editor’s note: Each Wednesday, West Hawaii Today is publishing a story about individuals, groups or organizations that have helped make life better for others in our community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Continuing a longtime tradition of giving back to the community, Hawaiian Electric employees are raising funds for United Way chapters on Oahu and Hawaii Island and in Maui County through the “Stay Home, Cook Rice — A Pandemic Limited Edition” cookbook.
The all-new edition is priced at $14 and includes more than 160 recipes contributed by Hawaiian Electric employees and retirees, their families and friends. From slow-cooked meals to Instant Pot favorites, these kitchen-tested recipes can be enjoyed any day of the week. The cookbook also includes helpful energy-saving tips for the home and a handy kitchen measurement conversion table.
“Although we need to maintain social distance during the pandemic, food is a great way to connect and our employees wanted to share recipes that have been helping them get through these unprecedented times,” said Bob Krekel, Hawaiian Electric business process and continuous improvement manager and employee fundraising committee chair. “We hope to raise funds through cookbook sales that will help support individuals and families in our community who are struggling to make ends meet every day.”
The ubiquitous rice can be found in such dishes as baked sushi, mom’s Chinese rice cooker chicken and pumpkin risotto, while an Instant Pot makes quick work of popular dishes such as kalua chicken, pot roast and even spaghetti. For those with special dietary needs, find gluten-free, vegetarian, paleo- and keto-friendly recipes.
All proceeds from the cookbook sales will benefit Aloha United Way, Maui United Way and Hawaii Island United Way, which together are helping unite people, organizations and resources to transform lives and create stronger, healthier and more resilient communities.
To purchase a copy of “Stay Home, Cook Rice,” visit www.hawaiianelectric.com/unitedwaycookbook for an order form, call 543-4601 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday, except holidays, or send an email to karen.garcia@hawaiianelectric.com.
Cookbooks can only be mailed within the United States. U.S. Postal Service Priority Mail rates will be applied. Delays might be because of the pandemic.
Know a Hometown Hero who should be highlighted next Wednesday? It can be anybody, from a youngster doing good for the community, to a professional helping with the COVID-19 pandemic, or even a kupuna! Please send your nominations to cjensen@westhawaiitoday.com with the subject: Hometown Heroes Nomination. Please include the hero’s name, contact information and what makes them a hero.