Episode 2 of Sa’ili Malo takes Fetu Samoa beyond the rugby league field and into the heart of Apia, where the squad explores local food, puts its Gagana Samoa skills to the test and experiences the flavours of home at Fugalei Market.
With 50 tala to spend on fresh local favourites, the girls take on a series of taste tests, connect with local vendors and share plenty of laughs along the way. From fresh coconuts to steamed pork buns and sea grapes, the episode celebrates the food, traditions and everyday experiences that connect Samoans to their culture.
The 50 Tala Fresh Coconut Challenge
The adventure begins with a mission to find fresh, cold niu (coconut) while making the most of a 50 tala budget. Destiny Mino-Sinapati, Pauline Pilia’e-Rasabale and Monica Tagoai put their Samoan language skills into practice as they approach local vendors, order their coconuts and navigate the busy market. After sampling the refreshing drink, the squad shares its verdict, appreciating the natural sweetness and freshness of the island favourite. The experience also creates an opportunity to share cultural knowledge, from identifying coconuts by their eyes to discussing the traditional process of making rich coconut cream.
Sula’s Famous Keke Pua’a
Next on the menu is keke pua’a, the popular Samoan steamed pork bun, from Sula’s. The players tuck into the soft, fluffy buns filled with warm, savoury pork, comparing the local version with those they have tried in Australia. The squad praises the texture and flavour, with the buns earning points for their lightness and balanced filling. It is another reminder that some of Samoa’s most loved foods carry a familiar taste of home, with each version offering its own experience.
The Ultimate Taste Test: Limu
The final stop brings a different kind of island delicacy to the table: limu, or sea grapes. With a 50 tala platter to share, the players sample the ocean-grown delicacy and give their honest reactions. The taste test produces a range of opinions, with players describing the salty flavour and distinctive texture in different ways. Some compare the small, bead-like sea grapes to caviar, while others find the intense ocean flavour a little harder to embrace. While limu is a familiar part of Samoan food culture, the reactions show that not every traditional delicacy is an instant favourite for everyone.
Watch Sa’ili Malo Episode 2
From practising Gagana Samoa with local vendors to sampling beloved island foods, Episode 2 offers a fun, behind-the-scenes look at Fetu Samoa bonding over the flavours and experiences of Samoa. Watch the full episode to join the squad on its Fugalei Market adventure and discover what happens when 50 tala, traditional favourites and honest taste tests come together.
