Durian Fruit: A Smell So Rotten, but a Taste So Sweet

[yuiyoshida]

Durian has been described as the most foul-smelling fruit in the world. Its aroma has been compared to raw sewage, rotting flesh and smelly gym socks. Durian’s smell is so pungent that the spiky-skinned, custard-like fruit is even banned from public places in Singapore and Malaysia. But for its fans, there is nothing better in this world.

[DemoTex]

1. I first tasted durian in jungle survival school ..

On my way to Vietnam, I had a two week stopover at Clark AFB in the Philippines for jungle survival school. That is where I developed an appreciation for the smelly fruit.

My first durian smelled like vomit, and I almost did. The taste of raw durian is strong, but tolerable. I found that it was best cooked into a custard, or similar dish.

Now, when in S.E. Asia, I seek out durian. In Bangkok, one can find a durian stand on most blocks, identifiable by the pungent, offensive smell. But I prefer the durian deserts found in the restaurants of Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore. I especially like durian ice cream.

But to eat durian, one has to get past the smell. Some never do. And given a choice between durian ice cream and rum-raisin ice cream, the rum-raisin wins every time for me!

[yuiyoshida]

2. We have an Asian Fusion place here in San Francisco

That serve Durian pudding in a lovely glass container that you get to keep!

[Texasgal]

3. I tired to taste it when I was

In Shanghai last year for business. I am usually a person that can try most things but I simply could not get over the smell! It was making me GAG! The vendor was laughing his ass off! UGH. I wish I could have forced myself because I REALLY wanted to try it!