The Allure and Controversy of Durian: A Deep Dive
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Chapter 1: Understanding Durian
From my initial encounter with the durian fruit, I was both intrigued and puzzled. Known as the ‘king of fruits’ in Southeast Asia, durian is not merely a fruit; it offers an entire experience. Its bold flavor, distinctive odor, and the varied reactions it elicits have made durian one of the most polarizing foods worldwide. In this article, I will address several fundamental questions regarding durian:
- What does durian taste like?
- Why is durian so odorous?
- Will you carry the smell of durian after eating it?
- Does durian have a foul smell yet a pleasant taste?
Taste
The flavor of durian is truly one-of-a-kind and challenging to compare with any other fruit. When I first sampled its creamy, custard-like flesh, I was hit with a wave of flavors. Durian's taste is both sweet and savory, reminiscent of a creamy almond sweetness intertwined with a subtle onion-like flavor. It’s rich and satisfying, more akin to a hearty meal than a light fruit snack. Some describe it as akin to caramelized onions or a rich vanilla custard with a hint of chives. It’s an adventure for your taste buds, to say the least.
Smell
Now, let’s tackle the notorious issue: the smell of durian. I can assert that the aroma of durian is as unique as its flavor. Its scent is strikingly powerful, a complex mix that ranges from sweet and fruity to sulfurous and onion-like. This distinctive odor is due to its volatile sulfur compounds, which are also present in onions, garlic, and even skunk spray.
A common query is, “Do you smell after eating durian?” Based on my experience, yes, the aroma can linger on your breath and hands after indulging in durian. The intensity of the odor can vary based on how much you consume and the specific type of durian. However, you can usually mitigate the smell with simple steps like washing your hands and brushing your teeth thoroughly.
Banned
Another frequent question surrounding this fruit is whether it is banned worldwide. The answer is NO. Durian is not globally banned, but certain places, especially in Southeast Asia where it’s widely enjoyed, have restrictions. Some hotels, public transport systems, and airlines in these areas have prohibited durian due to its strong smell, which can be overwhelming and unpleasant for some individuals.
Taste vs. Smell
Finally, we arrive at the central question: Does durian have an unpleasant smell but a delightful taste? From my viewpoint, the answer largely hinges on individual preference. For some, the aroma poses a significant barrier to appreciating the flavor. Nevertheless, many relish its unique scent and believe it enhances the creamy, complex flavor of the fruit. For these durian fans, the smell does not detract but rather adds to the overall sensory experience.
The Bottom Line
In summary, durian is a captivating study of contrasts—its rich, creamy sweetness paired with a potent, often debated aroma. Despite its divisive nature, it is evident that durian is more than just a fruit. It stands as a cultural phenomenon, a source of regional pride, and an adventurous culinary experience all rolled into one spiky exterior. Whether you find the taste of durian delightful or the smell off-putting, one thing is certain: trying it is an unforgettable experience.
The first video, "The Smell of Durian Explained," features insights from experts like BrainCraft, Joe Hanson, and Physics Girl, discussing the unique chemistry behind durian's infamous aroma.
The second video, "Durian - The World's Smelliest Fruit," from The New York Times, explores the cultural significance and the varied opinions surrounding this controversial fruit.
You can buy Native Durian Fruit on Amazon (affiliate link) if you wish to give it a try. Thank you for reading! If you enjoy exploring these topics, consider supporting writers by signing up for a membership on Medium for just $5 a month. Your support helps us greatly.