'Otai (Tongan Watermelon and Coconut Drink)
Local name: ʻOtai
In short: Chilled watermelon blended with coconut milk and fresh coconut flesh, a refreshing Tongan drink made in big jugs for gatherings. It takes about 15 min in total and makes 6 servings.
- Prep
- 15 min
- Cook
- 0 min
- Resting
- 30 min
- Total
- 15 min
- Servings
- 6
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Calories
- 195 kcal
'Otai is a chilled Tongan drink made from fruit and coconut. Watermelon is the classic base, blended and mixed with coconut milk and bits of fresh coconut, so each sip has a little texture. It is made in large jugs for gatherings and served ice cold. Mango, pineapple and banana versions also exist. Drink it the same day.
Instructions
- Blend the watermelon in 2 batches, pulsing until mostly smooth with a few small pieces left.
- Pour into a large jug. Stir in the coconut milk, coconut, lime juice and sugar if using.
- Chill for 30 minutes, stir well and serve over ice.
Tips
- Use a very ripe, sweet watermelon and you may not need any sugar. Chill the fruit first so the drink is cold without watering it down with ice.
- Stir before each pour, because the coconut and watermelon pulp settle. Mango or pineapple can replace half of the watermelon.
Questions and answers
What is 'otai?
'Otai is a Tongan drink of fresh fruit, usually watermelon, mixed with coconut milk and scraped coconut flesh. It is served cold at gatherings.
Can I use canned coconut milk?
Yes. Shake the can well and chill it before using. Full-fat coconut milk gives the best body.
How long does it keep?
Drink it the same day for the best flavor. Cover and chill leftovers for up to 24 hours and stir well before serving.
How long does it take to make 'Otai (Tongan Watermelon and Coconut Drink)?
About 15 min in total: 15 min of preparation and 0 min of cooking.
How many calories are in 'Otai (Tongan Watermelon and Coconut Drink)?
About 195 kcal per serving, with 2 g of protein, 21 g of carbohydrates and 12 g of fat. These values are estimates.
Nutrition per serving
| Calories | 195 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 21 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 16 g |
| Sodium | 20 mg |
Estimated values, calculated from the ingredients.
