Durian
The controversial fruit
Which variety is right for you?
Durian is a tropical fruit known for its distinctive large size, spiky
outer shell, and pungent odor. It's often called the
"King of Fruits" in Southeast Asia, where it is native.
It boasts a wide array of varieties, each with unique characteristics.
Some popular varieties include Mao Shan Wang, Red Prawn, Golden Phoenix,
Black Thorn, Black pearl, Green Bamboo, D24, and XO. It's custard-like
flesh is considered a delicacy across Southeast Asia. In fact, there are
dozens of durian festivals held across these countries, as well as in
international hubs like Singapore and Hong Kong. Durian is controversial
primarily due to its strong, pungent odor, which some find offensive,
while others find it appealing. This strong smell has led to the fruit
being banned from various public transportation systems and hotels in
Southeast Asia. Finding the right variety for your specific palate is key to
developing a fondness for this unique fruit.