Lykkers, durian, known as the “king of fruits," is an exotic delicacy with a bold personality. With its strong aroma and creamy, rich flesh, durian might just be the most controversial fruit around.
But don’t be fooled by its divisive scent—durian has a world of uses that go far beyond its smell. Known for its divisive nature, durian is a tropical fruit with a unique combination of flavors—rich, creamy, and slightly sweet, with a hint of savory.
Often found in Southeast Asia, durian is gaining popularity worldwide, not just for its flavor but for its versatility in a variety of applications. Let’s dive into the top 5 ways to use durian and see why this tropical powerhouse is so much more than its reputation:
1. Durian Smoothies and Milkshakes
Durian’s rich, custard-like texture makes it the perfect addition to smoothies and milkshakes. By blending the pulp with coconut milk or ice cream, you can create a creamy, sweet beverage that’s surprisingly refreshing. The unique taste of durian shines through, offering a complex, rich flavor profile that is both indulgent and tropical. Add a bit of honey or sugar to sweeten it up, and you’ve got yourself a drink that’s truly one-of-a-kind.
Durian Smoothie A Healthy and Nutritious Drink with the King of Fruits
Video by The 3-Minute Health
2. Durian Pastries and Cakes
Durian’s creamy flesh is an ideal filling for a variety of desserts. Whether in pastries, cakes, or buns, it adds a luxurious texture and distinctive flavor. Durian cakes are particularly popular in Southeast Asia, where they’re often served as a special treat. The flavor pairs wonderfully with other tropical fruits like mango or coconut, making it a perfect dessert option for those who love trying exotic flavors.
3. Durian Ice Cream
For those who want to enjoy durian’s bold flavor in a cool, refreshing way, durian ice cream is a must-try! The creamy base perfectly complements the rich, custard-like flesh of the fruit, turning it into a frozen delight. Durian ice cream is becoming a favorite in parts of Asia and increasingly gaining popularity elsewhere. It’s the ultimate way to cool down on a hot day while experiencing durian’s unique taste in a new way.
4. Durian Chips
For a savory snack with a twist, durian chips are a crunchy option to try. Made by slicing durian thinly and dehydrating or frying it, these chips offer a slightly sweet and savory crunch, perfect for those who want to enjoy durian’s flavor in a snackable form. Durian chips are often sold in markets across Southeast Asia and can be eaten on their own or paired with other snacks.
5. Durian in Savory Dishes
While durian is known for its sweet applications, it can also be used in savory dishes. In some regions, durian is added to curries or stir-fries, where its rich texture adds depth to the dish. Durian’s unique flavor profile—sweet, savory, and creamy—makes it a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory cuisines, giving dishes an exotic twist that’s sure to surprise your taste buds.
Durian’s bold and creamy nature makes it a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of exciting ways, from smoothies to savory dishes. Despite its notorious smell, durian’s complex flavor is worth embracing, and its many uses are bound to surprise even the most cautious of food adventurers.
Give it a try—you might just fall in love with this king of fruits!
