Malaysia’s most popular fruit, durian emits an odour some consider to be the worst smell in the world. But don’t let that turn you off trying it! This fruit is not only packed with nutritious value but tastes amazing!
Here’s a quick rundown on what makes the durian so beloved despite its smell and why you should keep an eye out as it will soon be making its way to Aussie shores!
What is the durian?
Native to Southeast Asia, the durian is distinguished by its spiky shell and horrible smell but also its delectable taste. The fruit is oval-shaped and about 30cm in diameter, with an average weight of half a kilo to 3 kilos.
The durian has long been treasured throughout Asia but has recently started to gain popularity in the western world thanks to its high nutritional value, which ultimately makes this Asian delicacy a superfruit!
What does durian taste like?
Despite its reputation as a repulsive odour-emitter, the durian’s taste is so delicious it allows people to happily overlook the fruits terrible smell.
Take a bite into a durian, and you’ll experience a unique flavour that combines sweet, savoury and creaminess all at once. Some compare the taste of durian to that of caramelised onion.
What makes durian the perfect ingredient?
Another reason why durian reigns as the king of all fruits in Malaysia is its versatility. It is not only delicious by itself, but it is also commonly used in desserts and curries.
V One is now importing high-quality durians in three different forms which can be used to cater to the needs of your food business.
Frozen Durian
The first form we import is frozen durian, which is perfect for dessert preparation. Whether you’re a restaurant, cafe, or food provider of any sort, frozen durian is a perfect ingredient for an exciting and exotic culinary creation.
Durian Pulp
The second form of durian we import is durian pulp, which is ideal for desserts, smoothies and even milk tea! Durian pulp is perfect for cafes looking to enhance their menu with some Asian-inspired drink alternatives.
Durian Paste
The final form of durian we import is durian paste, which is popularly used for Malaysian curries. Impress your clients and customers with an exciting new dish that incorporates authentic Southeast Asian flavours.
What kind of dishes can be made with durian?
Below you’ll find some of the most popular durian meals and drinks traditional to SoutheastAsia.
Korean Durian Hot Pot
This dish includes a unique concoction of Asian flavours that provides an exhilarating flavour experience that leaves the taste buds longing for more.
Crab with Durian Sauce
Another delicacy popular in Malaysia’s culinary culture is Crab with Durian Sauce. The creamy and sweet flavour of the durian complements the tender flesh of crab creating a delicious meal to excite the senses.
Durian Milk Tea
Taste this fruit’s signature bittersweet flavour and creamy texture as you slurp down the goodness that is Durian Milk Tea. This is a popular drink choice in Malaysia and surrounding countries.
Musang King Cendol
Musang King Cendol is a refreshing dessert made from shaved ice, coconut milk, palm sugar syrup and strands of dough made from rice flour topped off with the signature blend of durian pulp and other fruits.
Musang King Gelato
Much like Musang King Cendol, its sibling dessert option, Musang King Gelato also packs a punch with a sweet and sour taste sensation.
For more meal ideas, click here!
What are the health benefits of durian?
Not only does the durian fruit have ZERO cholesterol and ZERO saturated fat content, but the Asian wonder fruit is also rich in energy, vitamins and minerals.
More specifically, the durian fruit is rich in Iron, Vitamin C, and Potassium. It also has the ability to improve muscle strength and skin health.
Below you’ll find some juicy information about what makes durian a superfruit!
1. Energy
On average, the durian fruit provides 243 grams of carbohydrates which covers almost 20% of the average adult daily carb intake. Every 100 grams of durian contains 147 calories and 27 grams of carbohydrates, making it the perfect energy replenisher!
2. Potassium
The durian is also rich in Potassium, which is perfect for reducing fatigue and relieving mental stress. This is because Potassium assists in maintaining sodium levels and regulating heart rate.
3. Fiber
Durian is also rich in dietary fiber, which is important for the normal function of the digestive system. Because of the durian’s laxative properties, this fruit can help to minimise conditions like bloating, excess flatulence, heartburn and indigestion.
One small durian contains 23g of dietary fiber which is nearly all of your daily nutritional requirement.
4. Vitamin C
Every 100 grams of durian fruit contains almost 20mg of Vitamin C, which is ideal for not only fighting off illnesses like the common cold but also assists in improving blood flow.
5. Vitamin B
Durian fruit is also extremely high in Vitamin B which includes Niacin, Riboflavin, B5, B6 and Thiamine. These essential vitamins help in keeping free radicals at bay and has even been linked to age prevention.
Durians typically flower between March and June, meaning the best time to purchase is between July and September. To inquire about purchase orders, simply click here.
Looking to source durian for your food business? V One has access to the best suppliers in Southeast Asia. Get in touch with us about making V One your produce partner today.