Otai is a Polynesian fruit drink that is usually made with heavy cream and sugar.  I discovered this dairy-free version completely by accident: a few years ago, one of my daughters published a recipe for “Samoan Watermelon Drink” on her blog Homemade Toast, and this summer while sitting out in the late August heat, I got a hankering for a tall, cold glass of something refreshing.  Recalling her recipe, I decided to put together a low-fat, dairy-free version, and it turned out fantastic!  Here is the whole recipe:

• 2 cups Almond Breeze Vanilla Almond Milk (sweetened)
• 2 cups scooped Watermelon

Pour the Almond Milk in a blender, measuring in 16 ounces.  Scoop out watermelon and put it into the blender, watching the liquid line until it reaches 32 ounces.  (If your blender doesn’t show measures on the side, just eyeball it.)  Blend until almost smooth.  Some people prefer big chunks of watermelon in this, but I like mine smooth enough to drink through a straw.  Serve cold over ice.

Makes one quart.

ʻOtai is a fruit drink which originated in western Polynesia.

As milk alternatives go, I tend to stick with the Almond Breeze products – they have a delicious, mild flavor and work well in baking and cooking. (Sorry Silk.) Of their products, my absolute fav is their sweetened Vanilla Almond Milk, and it turns out it was the perfect choice for my vegan Otai.  Everyone in our house loves this stuff!!