Firefighter Bobby Grant and his wife Amber Grant make crockpot lasagna in the first episode of Food on Fire. | Photo courtesy
The Owensboro Fire Department is sharing some of their favorite Fire Department recipes via their new cooking show, Food on Fire, on Facebook. This program gives viewers a peek into the kitchen inside the fire station.
OFD Capt. Bobby Grant said the fire station is like a second home for firefighters, so they often cook most of their meals there while on duty. So sometimes you have to answer the phone before eating a freshly prepared meal.
“There have been many times when I have cooked a good meal and then been run over and eaten cold again, but that is just part of the job. I just eat,” he said.
The idea for the show came after a conversation between Owensboro City Communications and Marketing Manager Sherry Velez and OFD Fire Chief James Howard. The station should bring back cooking shows, he said, and, jokingly, Velez considered the idea.
“They make a lot of their meals there. They spend a lot of time there and have some favorite fun recipes that they now share,” Velez said.
In the first episode of food with fireBobby and wife Amber make crockpot lasagna for a little extra health. Bobby said he and Amber try to eat as responsibly as possible, but he also wants to enjoy traditional foods. As such, their recipes include healthier alternatives to cheese, meat, and noodles.
Bobby enjoyed welcoming people to his home and train station while filming the episode.
“I like to let people see our industry and what we do for the public. Showing people how well you’re doing can also help with recruiting. [as firefighters]. We cook here just like you cook at home,” said Bobby.
Velez said he already has a second episode showing how to cook shrimp and grits, which he plans to publish on OFD’s Facebook page next month. Episodes also include recipes with instructions so families can try cooking.