Tofushi is riceless, tofu-stuffed sushi, the invention of Christie Akamine Wilson of Xotic Eats, a takeout spot at 94-1040 Waipi'o Uka, Space 11, in Waipahu. Wilson, who has 17 years of food-business experience, is committed to healthier fast food options. While the tofu — pressed and texturized by a secret process — doesn't taste exactly like rice or have the same texture, it is fresh-tasting. For those controlling refined carbs, Tofushi offers a higher-protein option.

As a comparison, a quarter-cup of white rice (42 grams) has 150 calories, 3 grams protein, 33 grams carbohydrate. Three ounces of tofu (85 grams) has 50 calories, 5 grams protein, 1 gram carbohydrate. (Note: Rice contains no fat, but 3 ounces tofu contains 3 grams of unsaturated fat.) You also can find Tofushi at the Saturday farmers' market at Kapi'olani Community College. It sells for less than $5 for eight pieces in varieties ranging from California roll to spicy 'ahi. Questions? 678-2900.

—Wanda Adams

CHARITY CUPCAKES

HOKULANI BAKERS DOUBLE THE DELIGHT

Hokulani Bake Shop, which opened recently at Restaurant Row, makes delicious home-style cupcakes (no trans fats, no hydrogenated oils, no corn syrup) that look like Mom decorated them just for you.

From noon to 3 p.m. every Saturday in August, Bakeshop owners Tushar and Ana Dubey are baking cupcakes at the Williams Sonoma store at Ala Moana Center. You can sample cupcakes and place orders (they'll even deliver free in the downtown area if you order a dozen or more). One dollar from each cupcake purchase will benefit the Kapi'olani Medical Center Pediatric Fund. The cakes are $2 to $2.25 apiece and come in a variety of old-fashioned flavors, such as southern red velvet and toasted coconut.

—Wanda Adams