Vaimeleni (Samoan Watermelon Drink)

Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 0 minutes | Total: 10 minutes | Serves: 4
Best For: hot days, summer gatherings, refreshing treats

A Refreshing Samoan Favourite for Hot Days

Vaimeleni is a popular Samoan watermelon drink made with fresh watermelon, milk, ice, and condensed milk. Light, refreshing, and naturally cooling, it’s a go-to treat on hot days and during family gatherings.

Although it’s called a drink, Vaimeleni is usually served with a spoon, as the crushed watermelon and other additions are enjoyed first before drinking the sweet, chilled liquid. It’s simple, flexible, and made to suit individual tastes.

There is also a well-known Tongan variation called ‘Otai’, which follows a similar idea using fresh fruit and milk.

Ingredients for Vaimeleni

Base recipe:

• Fresh watermelon

• Milk

• Ice cubes

• Condensed milk, to taste

Optional additions:

• Coconut milk or coconut cream

• Fresh coconut

• Mango

• Canned fruit salad

• Coconut jelly

• Popping pearls

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Scrape the watermelon flesh using a spoon or fork into a large bowl.

2. Add milk to the bowl, enough to lightly cover the watermelon.

3. Add ice cubes to keep the drink well chilled.

4. Sweeten with condensed milk, adjusting to taste.

5. Add any optional extras if using, and stir gently to combine.

6. Serve immediately, with a spoon for scooping and a cup or bowl for drinking.

Helpful Tips

• Use very ripe watermelon for the best sweetness

• Add condensed milk gradually to avoid over-sweetening

• Coconut milk or cream adds extra richness if desired

• Serve cold for maximum refreshment

Why This Recipe Works

• Simple, refreshing, and quick to prepare

• Budget-friendly and flexible

• Easy to customise with fruit or jellies

• Perfect balance of texture and flavour

Explore More Pacific Island Recipes

If you enjoyed this recipe, you may also love:

• Suafa’i (Samoan Banana & Sago Pudding)

• Koko Alaisa (Samoan Cocoa Rice Porridge)

• Panikeke (Lapotopoto) – Samoan Round Pancakes