Congratulations to our ʻAi Pono Kauaʻi Challenge 2021 Winners!
We are excited to announce the winners for our second annual ‘Ai Pono Kauaʻi Challenge! From the bottom of our hearts, we wanted to give a big thank you to all of our participants and partners for making this second annual 7-day challenge a success. It was amazing seeing everyone support their local food sources and put their creativity to the test. Hopefully we all learned some ways to help make sourcing local food easier.
We received a large number of worthy submissions that made it difficult to select our winners. Unfortunately, we couldn’t give everyone an award, but we’re incredibly grateful to all those who submitted. Scroll down to find out who won!
best overall dish presentation
Kat Ho
Pumpkin Coconut Onion Soup with Basil Pesto
We were blown away by Kat’s stunning presentation of this unique soup. Her use of the pumpkin’s shell was so creative! This cozy meal was also 100% Kauaʻi grown.
Best Overall drink Presentation
Mālia Chun
Kōkeʻe Plum Swipe Martini
Mālia made this delicious martini using Kōkeʻe plum infused alcohol and Slow Island Co.’s mango citrus syrup! Topping it with a lavender flower from her yard was a nice finishing touch.
Most creative dessert
Sandra Jennings
ʻUlu Dessert Crepes
This private chef always blows us away with the next-level artistry she puts into her plate presentations. These ʻulu flour dessert crepes were no exception! Topped with mango, dragon fruit, lilikoi vanilla honey rum sauce, shaved Kauaʻi chocolate, and edible flowers, this dessert left our mouths watering.
Most Creative use of an invasive
Gary Hudson
Kalua Pig, Lūʻau Leaf, and Kalo Enchiladas
Gary made these delicious enchiladas as a homage to the legendary Norberto’s El Cafe and paired it with homemade enchilada sauce, homemade guacamole, and Kauaʻi salsa.
Most creative use of canoe plants
Viren Olson
Kalo Tamales with Molokaʻi Venison
Viren made these impressive tamales by using homemade kalo masa that she grated herself, stewed MolokaʻI venison, fresh tomato, and spices. All cozily wrapped up in banana leaves from her backyard!
Best Post Incorporating an ʻAi Pono Partner
Uma Nagrenda
Gumbo over Taro
Uma went above and beyond with this post showing us the process behind her gumbo over taro. She gathered her various ingredients from multiple partners, including Limahuli Gardens, Poʻokela Sausage Company, and Resilient Roots!
Completed Scavenger Hunt Card Winner
Diane Decker
Diane Decker was the sole participant who fully completed her scavenger hunt card.
Amazing job Diane!
Special Mention
Lahela Correa
Our team wanted to give Lahela a special mention for living the ʻai pono lifestyle regularly. Her great videos featuring her Keiki, ‘Ai Pono partners, and her creative, yummy meals were so fun to watch!
