Watermelon Otai is a traditional Samoan recipe for a drink made from a blend of watermelon and crushed pineapple in a coconut milk base with water-biscuit type crackers. The full recipe is presented here and I hope you enjoy this classic Samoan version of: Watermelon Otai.
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Ever since watermelon was introduced into Polynesia this has become a truly classic drink. I first learnt of it in Samoa, but it is prepared in Tonga, New Zealand, Hawaii and Fiji.
There are a couple of things to keep in mind as you create your own perfect ‘otai. First, this is a refreshing drink with the fruit as the star and the other ingredients playing supporting roles. Second, the fruit should be shredded, not blended. If you “drink the first half of the ‘otai in your glass and eat the second half with a spoon” you’ve made it correctly. And finally, ‘otai is often either served towards the end or after the main meal, as an appetizer or just because we’re all craving ‘otai!
There are as many different recipes for ‘otai as there are people who make it so we put together a base recipe with suggestions for variations. Your ‘otai recipe will become your own as you tweak it to your own taste.
Ingredients:
1/2 large watermelon
400g crushed pineapple
750ml cold water
400ml (1 tin) coconut milk
Sugar (optional, to taste)
Crushed Ice
Method:
Use a fork to scrape the inside of the watermelon into shreds or cut the watermelon into large chunks and use the large side of your grater to grate the fruit. Do not grate the rind. (We suggest using a seedless watermelon otherwise scrape out the black watermelon seeds before adding to your bowl.)
Add the remainder of the ingredients. (Do not drain the pineapple juice, add it with the pulp.)
Taste the mixture and add sugar to taste (I don't bother but I like things tart) use a light hand if you feel it needs a little sweetening.
Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least an hour.
When ready to serve, add enough crushed ice to equal at least 1/3 of the total otai mixture. Serve immediately after adding the ice and don’t forget to include a spoon with every glass!.
There should be enough to serve in a large punchbowl. Remember to adjust the amount of the ingredients up or down based on the amount of watermelon you use and to your taste. This is a very forgiving recipe so don’t worry just mix and enjoy!
Variations:
Many recipes call for the addition of fresh or frozen shredded coconut to the drink. About 150g would be enough for the recipe above. You can also use shredded coconut as a garnish.
Another favourite is to add a splash of lime to taste. Grated ripe mango can be used as a substitute for the watermelon.
Apple and Mango are fast becoming classic ‘otai mainstays along with the watermelon but your favourite refreshing fruit can also be used.
Some local favourites instead of the pineapple are tinned mixed fruit, fresh passion fruit or mango.
Instead of water you could substitute pineapple juice or coconut juice.
In Samoa, broken up crackers are often added. They are allowed to soak in the liquid for 20 minutes before serving. This gives the solids (which you eat with a spoon) a bit of a crunch.
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