Fruits come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and flavors. With over 1,500 varieties of fruit found around the world, identifying the “king” is no easy task. However, there is one fruit that stands above the rest in terms of its revered status, unique taste and texture, and nutritional benefits. That fruit is the durian.
What is Durian?
The durian is a large, spiky, oval-shaped tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia. It can grow up to one foot long and weigh up to seven pounds. Durian trees are very tall, reaching up to 164 feet in height. The word “durian” comes from the Malay word “duri” which means thorn or spike. This refers to the fruit’s distinct spiky outer covering. Durian flesh is yellow or red in color with a creamy, custard-like texture. It has a very pungent smell, which some people find offensive while others find fragrant. Over 600 different varieties of durian exist today. Popular varieties include D24, Musang King, and Black Thorn. Durian season runs from June to August in most parts of Southeast Asia.
Why is Durian Called the King of Fruit?
Durian earned the moniker “king of fruit” for several reasons:
Its Impressive Size and Appearance
As mentioned earlier, durians are one of the largest tree-borne fruits in the world, growing over one foot long and weighing up to seven pounds each. Its imposing size and knobby, armored exterior make it look almost prehistoric or alien-like. The durian commands your attention immediately.
Its Rich, Complex Flavor
Beyond its size, the durian wins over fans with its rich, creamy flavor and pleasant aroma. The soft, custardy flesh offers a sweet taste complemented by hints of almond. Some durians have more bitter notes as well. The complexity of durian flavor leads to an indulgent eating experience unmatched by other fruits. Food writer Richard Sterling has described its flavor as “…a rich custard highly flavored with almonds gives the best general idea of it” and “rich, buttery, slightly alcoholic”.
Its “Kingly” Status in Southeast Asia
Durian is native to Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia, where it thrives in the tropical, equatorial climate. It has become a cultural icon and beloved treat. Locals bestow royal titles upon it like “king of fruits”. The durian holds great importance in Southeast Asian celebrations and traditions. It is also a prized export commodity in the region.
Its Impressive Nutrient Content
Not only is durian flavorful and satisfying, it is highly nutritious. Durian contains high amounts of fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B. One cup of durian delivers 80% of your recommended daily intake of vitamin C and nearly a quarter of your daily fiber needs. It also contains beneficial plant compounds with antioxidant properties. The durian’s rich nutrient profile provides many health benefits.
The Unique Taste and Texture of Durian
One of the most distinctive aspects of durians is their unusual taste and texture. The large seeds are surrounded by a soft, creamy flesh reminiscent of custard. The flesh can be yellow or red depending on the variety. Red durian flesh is eaten more often in Thailand while Indonesians and Malaysians prefer the yellow varieties.
When perfectly ripe, the durian flesh tastes sweet with hints of bitterness. It has a pleasant aroma that some liken to fruity or floral notes while others find pungent and offensive, causing durians to be banned in certain public spaces. The creamy flesh and delicate flavor provide a rich mouthfeel and indulgent taste experience.
Common Flavor Descriptors for Durian
- Sweet, honey-like
- Custardy, buttery
- Almond notes
- Mildly alcoholic
- Slightly fermented
- Garlic, onion undertones
- Sulfuric or skunky aromas
Beyond flavor, the durian has a smooth, dense texture described as custard-like. The flesh gives way easily when perfectly ripe but becomes harder when underripe. This velvety texture that almost melts in the mouth makes durian a pleasure to eat.
The Nutritional Value of Durian
Not only is the durian incredibly tasty, it is very nutritious. Durians are packed with nutrients like:
| Nutrient | Amount Per 1 Cup Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 357 |
| Fat | 20.9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28.1 g |
| Fiber | 5.1 g |
| Sugar | 19.9 g |
| Protein | 2.8 g |
| Vitamin C | 44.9 mg |
| Manganese | 0.4 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.3 mg |
| Potassium | 493 mg |
| Copper | 0.2 mg |
Some key vitamin and mineral benefits of durian include:
Excellent Source of Vitamin C
With 44.9 milligrams per serving, durian supplies 80% of your daily vitamin C needs. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant and helps boost immunity.
Good Fiber Content
A one-cup serving of durian provides 20% of your daily fiber requirement. Fiber promotes digestive health.
High in Potassium
Durian contains almost 500 milligrams of potassium per cup serving. Potassium helps control blood pressure and heart function.
Decent Source of B Vitamins
Durian supplies vitamins B6, B9, and B3. B vitamins facilitate energy metabolism.
The healthy fats, carbohydrates, and protein also make durian a fairly balanced fruit. Considering its excellent nutrient profile in addition to its delicious taste, it’s easy to see why the durian is called the king of fruits!
Health Benefits of Durian
Eating durians provides many excellent health benefits thanks to the fruit’s diverse nutritional makeup. Here are some of the top benefits you can expect to enjoy by adding durian to your diet:
Boosts Immunity
With 80% of your vitamin C needs in a single serving, durians are one of the best sources of this protective vitamin. Vitamin C stimulates white blood cell production to fight infection.
Improves Digestion
The fiber content of durian promotes healthy digestion and prevents constipation. Fiber creates bulk in stool and improves intestinal motility.
Stabilizes Blood Sugar
Despite being sweet, durians have a low glycemic index. The fiber helps slow sugar absorption and prevent spikes and crashes in blood sugar after eating.
Provides Antioxidants
Durian contains antioxidant compounds like vitamin C, manganese, and copper which combat free radical damage that leads to disease.
Protects Heart Health
With beneficial minerals like potassium, magnesium, and B vitamins, durian supports heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
May Aid in Weight Loss
The fiber and nutrient density of durian promote satiety and fullness. This may help prevent overeating and assist with losing weight.
Relieves Muscle Cramps
The potassium content of durians can help relieve muscle cramps related to physical activity and low potassium levels.
Tips for Selecting and Eating Durian
Follow these tips to choose a perfectly ripe, delicious durian and enjoy it properly:
Selecting Durian
- Choose durians with a fresh stem still attached
- Avoid durians with mold or damp spots
- Give a light shake – the seeds should rattle inside
- Opt for an oval shape with thick, firm spikes
- Ripe durians emit a strong fragrance
Opening and Eating Durian
- Use a knife to cut around the center seam, then twist open
- Scoop out flesh and remove seeds
- Enjoy immediately for best flavor and texture
- Refrigerate cut durian tightly sealed for 2-3 days max
- Freeze pureed flesh in airtight bags for 6 months
Serving Ideas
- Eat raw, straight from the shell
- Add to smoothies
- Blend into ice cream or milkshakes
- Bake into custards or cakes
- Pair with sticky rice as a dessert
Where to Find Durian
Durians grow naturally in tropical Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and others. You may be able to find fresh durian at ethnic markets in these regions when in season. Outside of Southeast Asia, look for whole frozen or refrigerated durian in Asian specialty stores. Canned or packaged durian pulp is also available year-round in many places. If you can only find whole frozen durians, thaw overnight in the fridge before opening. Always use ripe, good quality durians for the best flavor and texture.
Common Questions About Durian
Why does durian smell bad?
Durian has a potent odor that some find offensive. Sulfur compounds in the flesh produce smells reminiscent of rotten food, onions, or gasoline. However, this smell develops as the fruit ripens, signalling peak flavor.
Can you eat durian every day?
Yes, eating a serving of durian daily can provide nutritional benefits. However, moderation is still best. The high calorie and fat content means durian is a high-energy food best consumed in reasonable portions.
Is durian good for pregnancy?
Durian can be beneficial for pregnant women thanks to its high amounts of folate, vitamin C, manganese, and copper. However, pregnant women should consume it in moderation due to its high calorie content.
Does durian make you gain weight?
Durians are very high in calories, fat, and sugar. Consuming large amounts frequently can lead to excess weight gain over time. Stick to moderate, measured portions to prevent overeating.
Is durian safe for diabetes?
Durian has a low glycemic index, meaning it does not spike blood sugar levels as much as other sugary foods. In moderation, it can be safe for diabetics. Monitor blood glucose carefully after eating.
Conclusion
The durian stands out among fruits for its giant size, spiky appearance, pungent aroma, and indulgent creamy texture. Hailing from Southeast Asia, it enchants locals and visitors with its sweet, custardy flesh. Not only does durian provide a decadently rich eating experience, it delivers ample nutrition as well. With benefits ranging from improved immunity and digestion to stabilized blood sugar and better heart health, it’s clear why the durian is considered the king of all fruits. While some find its odor off-putting at first, tasting the durian’s velvety flesh often wins over skeptics. If you get the chance to try the legendary durian, embrace the opportunity to eat like royalty. Just be sure to consume in moderation and enjoy its delicious benefits.