The durian (Durio zibethinus) is a tree belonging to the hibiscus or mallow family (Malvaceae), known for its large, edible fruit. It is cultivated primarily in Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and southern Thailand, and is rarely exported. Despite its mild sweet flavor, the durian is notorious for its strong odor, often likened to Limburger cheese. Due to this characteristic smell, the fruit is prohibited from public transportation in some regions. The custard-like pulp of the durian can be consumed at different stages of ripeness and is used in a variety of both sweet and savory dishes. Additionally, the seeds can be roasted and eaten as well.
The durian tree features oblong tapering leaves with rounded bases and bears yellowish-green flowers along its older branches. The fruit is spherical, typically measuring 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 inches) in diameter. It is encased in a hard outer husk or shell adorned with robust spines. Inside, the fruit contains five oval compartments, each filled with a creamy-colored pulp surrounding one to five chestnut-sized seeds. Ripe durian fruits are consumed by numerous animals and play a significant role in local ecosystems.
Durian, a distinctive tropical fruit, holds popularity in Southeast Asia, earning the nickname “the king of fruits.” It stands out for its rich nutritional profile, surpassing that of many other fruits. Despite its nutritional benefits, durian’s strong aroma has contributed to its controversial reputation. This article provides a comprehensive guide to understanding durian.
Durian fruit is a tropical delicacy recognized for its large size and spiky, tough outer shell.
Known for its potent aroma, it features custard-like flesh containing sizable seeds.
Among its various types, Durio zibethinus is the most prevalent.
The flesh of the fruit varies in color, commonly yellow or white, though it can also appear red or green.
Durian thrives in tropical climates worldwide, particularly in Southeast Asian nations like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand.
A fully grown durian can reach up to 1 foot (30 cm) in length and 6 inches (15 cm) in width. On average, a durian contains about 2 cups (486 grams) of edible pulp.
How is it used?
Durian is utilized in a variety of sweet and savory dishes. Its creamy flesh and edible seeds, which require cooking, are both utilized.
The flavor profile is often likened to a blend of cheese, almonds, garlic, and caramel.
Typical culinary uses of durian fruit include:
- Juice
- Boiled or roasted seeds
- Soup
- Candies, ice creams, and other desserts
- Side dishes
Additionally, durian is employed in traditional medicine, with ongoing studies exploring its potential medicinal properties.
Durian boasts an impressive nutritional profile compared to most other fruits.
One cup (243 grams) of durian pulp provides (1Trusted Source):
- Calories: 357
- Fat: 13 grams
- Carbohydrates: 66 grams
- Fiber: 9 grams
- Protein: 4 grams
- Vitamin C: 80% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Thiamine (Vitamin B1): 61% of the DV
- Manganese: 39% of the DV
- Vitamin B6: 38% of the DV
- Potassium: 30% of the DV
- Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): 29% of the DV
- Copper: 25% of the DV
- Folate: 22% of the DV
- Magnesium: 18% of the DV
- Niacin (Vitamin B3): 13% of the DV
In addition to its rich nutrient content, durian is also abundant in beneficial plant compounds such as anthocyanins, carotenoids, polyphenols, and flavonoids, many of which act as antioxidants.
Durian Health Benefits:
Throughout traditional Malaysian medicine, every part of the durian plant, from its leaves, husk, roots, to its fruit, has been utilized to address a range of ailments such as high fever, jaundice, and skin conditions. Recent studies have also indicated that durian fruit may offer notable health advantages.
Durian’s antioxidants have shown potential in reducing cancer risk by neutralizing free radicals that promote cancer. In laboratory tests, durian extract inhibited the spread of a specific strain of breast cancer cells.
Durian contains compounds that can potentially lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, thereby preventing heart disease.
Durian rind contains compounds known for their antibacterial and anti-yeast properties, aiding in fighting infections.
Durian has a lower glycemic index (GI) compared to numerous other tropical fruits, potentially leading to less of a spike in blood sugar levels.
While promising, most studies on the health benefits of durian have been conducted on animals or in test tubes. It remains essential to validate these findings through controlled studies involving human subjects before making definitive claims.
May pose risks when combined with alcohol:
Eating durian simultaneously with alcohol may lead to issues. Researchers suggest that sulfur-like compounds in durian could hinder the breakdown of alcohol by enzymes, potentially resulting in elevated alcohol levels in the bloodstream. This interaction may cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and heart palpitations. To err on the side of caution, it is advisable to refrain from consuming durian and alcohol concurrently.
To eat durian, begin by protecting your hands with gloves or mitts due to its tough, spiky shell. Use a knife to carefully cut open the shell and pry it apart with your hands. Once opened, gently remove the durian flesh. Enjoy it fresh as it is, paired with sticky rice, or incorporated into various dishes.
Frozen durian flesh is also available, altering its texture to a looser, more stringy consistency. Durian is also used in candies and other prepared foods, which offer its distinctive flavor but may not provide the same health benefits as fresh fruit.
For detailed guidance on opening a durian and a variety of recipes, numerous tutorials and resources are available online.
Opinions on durian’s smell are polarized: some find it appealing, while others find it repulsive.
The aroma of durian is famously intense, likened to a mix of sulfur, sewage, honey, fruit, and a blend of roasted and rotting onions. Research has identified 44 active compounds responsible for its complex scent, including notes reminiscent of skunk, caramel, rotten egg, various fruits, and seasoning used in soups.
The fruit’s potent odor is so pervasive that it’s banned in numerous hotels and public transport systems across Southeast Asia. Whether you perceive its fragrance as sweet or pungent largely depends on which compounds dominate your sense of smell.
Durian fruit boasts a rich nutritional profile, abundant in B vitamins, vitamin C, minerals, beneficial plant compounds, healthy fats, and fiber.
Nevertheless, its distinctive smell and taste may not appeal to everyone.
