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A favorite Polynesian drink
Summer is over, but the watermelons still hold up. Why not go a little further and make a memorable watermelon drink? I have been living in Polynesia for the last 20 years and this drink is always a big hit at gatherings. You will run out of it before the food is served.
Be sure to use clean surfaces and wash your hands and tools you use. First, choose your watermelon. Look at the watermelons and find one that is symmetrical, firm, and without bruises, cuts, or dents. pick it up It should be heavy for its size, as watermelons are 92% water. The exterior of the watermelon should have a dull, healthy shine. It should not have a glossy, shiny surface. Turn it around. The bottom should have a telltale “ripe spot,” a creamy yellow spot where the watermelon settled on the ground. This spot develops as the melon grows in the soil. If the spot is greenish or white in color, it is not ripe yet. Watermelons do not continue to ripen once they have been picked, so this is an important clue to keep in mind.
The easiest thing is to choose a seedless watermelon, but if you have one with seeds, this will be the most tedious part. Cut the watermelon in half and scoop out the seeds with a spoon; the little yellow ones don’t count. Then use a fork or potato masher to mash the fruit. You want it to remain meaty (it’s a drink you eat and drink at the same time). Now put half of the watermelon puree in a large bowl and add two quarts of water, one or two cups of sugar or sugar substitute (depending on preference), two cups of half and half (fat free is best) or one can coconut milk. You can also add a handful of shredded coconut from a bag, or grate a fresh coconut, if you are experienced in doing so.
Add a can of crushed pineapple or use fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into small pieces. Be sure to mix until the sugar no longer scrapes the bottom of the bowl.
Chill before serving or if you are in a hurry you can add ice. I promise you will not be disappointed. You can add shaved ice, but drink soon or it won’t be as good. Tongans make this drink with green mangoes, green apples, and a few other fruits. They also like to crack cookies in it. It takes a little getting used to, so try the watermelon-coconut-pineapple mix at first.