The durian fruit is widely known and honored in Southeast Asia as the “king of fruits”. It is large in size up to 12 inches long, typically weighs 3-6 lbs, has a unique odor, and a hard, spiky shell.
Smells like gym socks!
The edible flesh emits a distinctive odor, strong and penetrating even when the shell is intact. Some people regard the durian as fragrant; others find the aroma overpowering and offensive. From deep appreciation to intense disgust. The smell has been described variously as almonds, rotten onions, turpentine, overripe cheese, custard and gym socks!
No durian on the bus
The odor has led to the fruit’s banishment from certain hotels and public transportation in Southeast Asia. The smell of the durian can be nearly nauseating to some, until they taste this fruit. Once you are hooked on durian the interesting smell all but disappears. Raw food enthusiasts usually love them.
Contain more protein than any other fruit
Despite what many deem to be a foul, sulfurous smell, durians are considered a longevity food, as well as an aphrodisiac, a vermifuge (worm-spelling agent) and a strong blood cleanser. They are high in oleic fats, vitamin E and sulfur and contain more protein than any other fruits.
Orangutans love them
Durians are the favorite fruit of the orangutans. Also popular with squirrels, pigs, elephants and tigers!
How to eat a durian
Simply split it open and scoop out the cream-colored meat. Pick out the large seeds and discard. The creamy meat tastes like a rich vanilla custard highly flavored with almonds!
Fresh durian
In North America fresh durians are rare. I once had a raw ice cream made from frozen durian – it was NOT good! The fresh fruits are much tastier, have a more pleasant texture and contain more of the nutrient value than those that have been frozen.
Where can I buy one?
You can usually find them in Asian markets. In south Florida you can come across fresh durian fruits (when in season) at Josh’s Organic Juice Bar in Hollywood, and at Glaser Organic Farmers Market in Coconut Grove. If you know of any other place that sells them, be sure to tell me!
Durian Smoothie Recipe
Read here how to make a creamy and sweet durian smoothie.
I got to taste a cupole types in Malaysia (which I snuck into my hotel ) and a cupole types in Singapore. I guess they would classify me as an amateur, ’cause I tend to like the sweeter, butterier types. But apparently the true connoisseurs like the really bitter, concentrated types. I think different cultures have different preferences too. The Chinese in Malaysia like their durian freshly ripe. Apparently the Thai like theirs a bit raw, when it can even be a bit crisp (is that true?). And the Malays like it really fermented, and they use it in cooked dishes too. I just got an email yesterday about a durian museum just outside of Bangkok. I hope to make it to Thailand some day!