Durian

What Is Durian?

Durian (Durio zibethinus) is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, known for its hard rind covered in large, sharp spikes. It is called the “king of fruits” in the region and is one of the world’s most controversial fruits, with devoted fans as well as people who dislike its smell.

Inside the rind is creamy, yellowish cream-colored flesh divided into several sections, with an intense aroma. Its smell is often described as a mix of onion, rotten fruit, and sweet cream; for this reason, durian is prohibited on public transportation and in hotels in many Southeast Asian countries.

Durian Nutrition

Durian is one of the fruits highest in fat and calories; 100 grams contains about 147 kcal, 5.3 g of fat, and 3.8 g of fiber. It also contains notable amounts of thiamin (B1) and potassium.

What Are the Benefits of Durian?

With its energy and potassium content, durian is a filling fruit that can be considered part of a balanced diet. Portion control is important because it is high in calories.

This information is general; durian is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment. There is a traditional warning that consuming it with alcohol may cause discomfort; it may be prudent to exercise caution.

How to Choose Durian

A ripe durian is one whose flesh can be felt moving slightly when shaken and whose aroma is faintly noticeable through the spikes.

• If the stem is fresh and the rind has started to crack, the fruit is ripe.
• A slight sound or movement when shaken indicates that the flesh inside has loosened.
• In Türkiye, it is generally sold pre-opened and frozen in sections; in that case, the color should be bright yellow.

How to Store Durian

Whole durian keeps at room temperature for 2–3 days. Because of its smell, the opened flesh should be stored in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator; freezing is the most practical method for long-term storage.

How to Use Durian in the Kitchen

Durian is most often eaten fresh and raw, with the flesh scooped out with a spoon. It is also used in Southeast Asian desserts, ice cream, sticky rice desserts, and some traditional cakes.

How to Open a Durian

Carefully split the rind with a thick knife, following its natural lines; separate the rind by hand or with the knife to expose the sections inside.

How to Make Durian Dessert

Durian flesh is combined with sticky rice and coconut milk to make traditional desserts such as Thai-style “durian sticky rice”; it is also used in ice cream and cake fillings.

What Dishes Use Durian?

Durian is used in sticky rice desserts, durian ice cream, milkshakes, and some traditional Southeast Asian cakes. It is also eaten on its own when fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does durian smell so strong?

Durian’s strong smell comes from sulfur compounds it contains; some people find it pleasant, while others find it unpleasant. For this reason, durian is prohibited in enclosed spaces in many places.

How do you eat durian?

After opening the rind, scoop the creamy flesh out of the sections by hand or with a spoon and eat it directly. The seeds can be eaten if cooked, but should not be eaten raw.

Can durian be consumed with alcohol?

Traditionally, consuming durian and alcohol together is discouraged; although definitive scientific evidence on this is limited, caution and avoiding excessive consumption are recommended.

Where can durian be found in Türkiye?

Durian is not grown locally in Türkiye; it is generally sold frozen in sections at exotic fruit stores in major cities.

How should durian be stored?

The whole fruit keeps for a few days at room temperature. Because of its smell, opened flesh should be stored for a short time in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator, and frozen for longer storage.