Durian is a large, spike-covered fruit from South East Asia, sometimes known as the "king of fruits," and famous enough to make the list of 50 things to eat before you die. The fruits weigh anywhere from 2 to 10-pounds and are famous for their unusually creamy texture and rich taste to those who like it, but the most famous quality of durian is its unmistakable odor, described as everything from a combination of onions and sweaty socks to rotting fish and sewage. The smell can extend for up to 1/2 mile, drawing the many animals that like to eat it, including pigs, elephants, squirrels and even tigers, right to the ripe fruits. The ripening process continues even after the fruit has been removed from the tree, developing more pungency and a creamier texture. Due to the texture of the flesh, which is that of thick custard, it is considered to be a delicacy and a treat to many people.
The fruits have been cultivated for about 500 years, but were eaten throughout South East Asia long before they were discoverd by the Western world. Thailand is one of the largest exporters of the fruits, though they can grown almost anywhere that has a similar climate, like Hawaii and India.
While durian afficianados can tell a lot from the smell, novices should rely on other techniques to choose a fruit. To select a good durian, look for a fruit that is comparitively light for its size. Shaking it can give an indication of ripeness, as the large seeds will move around slightly more in a ripe fruit. If the stem is still attached to the durian, it should be moist; dry stems are an indication of less fresh fruit. Despite their formidable appearance, durain are quite easy to peel. As the fruit ripens, the thick rind develops cracks. By examining the rind, it is possible to see where the cracks are developing. If there are already fissures in the fruit, it is a simple matter of inserting either a small knife, or one's fingers, inside and breaking it apart. The durian will contain several large segments of its pudding-like fruit.
Asian markets often sell durian flavored things if they don't carry the whole fruits. Pastries and cakes made with durian are almost always milder in flavor than the fruit itself, but are a good way to get a sense of the taste. There are cookies, candies and caramels, but braver souls can try:
[Photo she bakes and she cooks]
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