Get to know this food
Durian is a large spiky Southeast Asian fruit famous for its distinctive smell and its rich, custard-like edible flesh.
Why is it special?
The outer shell looks defensive, covered in sturdy spikes. Cut it open, however, and the edible flesh is surprisingly soft and creamy. Durian varieties differ in sweetness, bitterness, and fragrance, so a single taste cannot describe every durian.
How is it eaten?
The aroma splits opinions, which is why durian has become an internet talking point. In parts of Southeast Asia, though, people appreciate the fruit for complex flavours and distinctive cultivars. It deserves more than a one-line joke about its smell.
Frequently asked questions
Is durian the same as jackfruit?
No. Both are large tropical fruits, but they are different fruits with their own aromas and textures.
What does durian taste like?
Many people describe its flesh as rich and creamy; flavour and intensity differ by variety.
Source used for this explainer: Singapore NParks — Durio zibethinus — Read original source ↗