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What Does Durian Taste Like? Exploring the Flavor

There are so many unique fruits that are available in the market today.

Some of these fruits may seem strange or even have a funky smell to them, but none can compare to the king of fruits.

Having such a regal title, you would think that it’s probably the most delicious fruit on the planet.

Well, while many may not be able to rival the taste of durian, the smell is something that you may find more challenging to withstand, especially when so many have compared it to rotten meat and even feces.

So, what does durian taste like? You may be wondering; keep scrolling to find out.

What is Durian?

Durian is an edible fruit that is enjoyed primarily in Southeast Asia.

It resembles a jackfruit in size and shape, but that’s where the similarity ends.

The fruit is part of the vast and extensive genus Durio which is found all over the continent of Asia.

The fruit is easy to identify since it has a thorny or spikey outer rind that is a bit greenish or yellowish.

It also has a very distinctive odor that is hard to miss and quite intense.

A full grow durian can way anywhere between two to seven pounds.

They grow on trees that are about twenty to fifty meters in height.

The inside flesh can be a pale yellow or red, depending on the type of species.

Each fully mature durian will either be round or oblong in shape.

In the international market, you’ll only find one species available for sale.

The Durio zibethinus, a species native to Bornes and Sumatra, is sold worldwide; however, plenty of different types of durian are found locally in most parts of Asia.

What Does Durian Taste Like?

There’s a reason why people either love or despise this fruit; it’s been dubbed the world’s stinkiest fruit and has been banned in public places in Malaysia.

If you’re thinking, ‘It can’t be that bad,’ you would be sorely mistaken.

The smell of this majestic plant has been compared to almost every nasty thing you can think of.

Many say it’s like smelling raw sewage, rotting meat, garbage, and even stinky socks.

This is not something you want to hear before eating something.

However, once you get past the smell of the fruit, the taste is incomparable to anything you’ve ever eaten.

It’s got a velvety mouth feel and a delightful aftertaste.

The fruit is also quite savory when first consumed, giving off herby flavors similar to chives.

All these different combinations of textures and flavors make it so unique that everyone should try it at least once.

Just make sure you hold your breath while you eat it.

The fruit is so different in texture that many have compared it to ice cream but sweeter with added notes of fresh spices like garlic, onions, and caramel all at once.

It is truly a fruit worth appreciating, even if you cannot find one to try at the grocery store.

With a smell that can instill deep disgust to a flavor profile that garners immense appreciation, it’s one food item you should attempt to eat at least once in your lifetime.

How to Serve Durian?

Before diving in and giving up the best tips to enjoy this excellent fruit, you should know how to pick or choose your durian.

This is crucial because if you eat a raw one, you will regret it.

You’ll get all the funk without the flavor.

Try and look for one that has a bit of give; this usually means the flesh is tender and just right for consumption.

If the fruit falls apart when you apply pressure, it’s overripe.

The key to eating durian is enjoying it when it’s just right.

There are many durians, and each species has a unique combination or set of flavor profiles; you have to do your research and find the one that’s suitable for you and your family or friends.

Once you’ve done that, you can use the fruit for several food preparations.

Many people like to drink durian juice or use it as a flavoring for ice cream.

The fruit is packed with nutrients and vitamins and is excellent as a health juice.

Some people even add durian to soups and broths.

The seeds can also be roasted, boiled, and eaten.

You can even serve a side dish that consists of durian or just eat it raw, as most people do.

Conclusion

This enigmatic fruit is slowly making its way into mainstream media, with many people curious to try it.

Most individuals eat is as a dare to see if they can withstand the pungent smell and end up loving the taste.

It’s also a fruit that’s high in nutrition with one of the most extensive lists of minerals and proteins in its profile, and has healthy plant compounds that are great for your body.

So, do not let the stink deter you from trying out the king of all fruits.

What Does Durian Taste Like? A Comprehensive Guide

5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Taste

Ingredients
  

  • Durian
  • Ingredients from your selected recipes

Instructions
 

  • Select ingredients that work well together.
  • Use a recipe or method that will enhance their natural taste.
  • Taste and adjust the recipe as needed to achieve the desired flavor.
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