Fruit Durian - “The smelly king of fruits is durian. How to choose, how to open and eat, how to try to avoid the smell, and some more facts to know ahead of time.”

Durian fruit, the photo of which you can see on our website, belongs to the category of exotic. Many women do not even know what features he has. Let's take a closer look at what the so-called king of fruits is.

How to recognize durian?

This fruit ripens only under the hot sun of Malaysia, India and Thailand and other countries of Southeast Asia. In these states, it has long been a traditional delicacy. The plant also grows on small, artificially created plantations in South and Latin America. I must say that at the moment there are about 30 varieties, but only the fruits of nine varieties of plants can be eaten. Only 3-4 varieties are especially popular.

Want to know what a durian looks like? The photo in our article will help you understand that this fruit is extremely difficult to confuse with another. Translated from Malaysian, its name means "thorn". Mother nature generously rewarded the fruit with protection from external influences. In addition to the fact that it has a very thick skin, there are a large number of greenish-brown spikes on its surface. This is necessary in order for the fruit to develop quietly until fully ripe.

If you peel the fruit, you will see the filling in the form of two or three slices of a delicate yellowish-cream shade. As you bite, you will feel the consistency of melted butter or cream cheese. The fruit sometimes reaches incredible sizes. In length, the fruit can reach 30 centimeters, and weight - 8 kilograms.

Durian is an evergreen plant in the Malvaceae family. The tree during its development can reach 40 meters in height. The leaves of this giant are slightly pointed, arranged alternately and have a shiny, leathery surface. Perfectly smooth on the outside and scaly on the opposite side - the leaves look unusual and really look like a “wonder of nature”. This amazing plant blooms for only a few hours. Golden brown, white and golden buds open at dusk and close at dawn.

Advice! I must say that it is better to observe flowering at a certain distance, at this time the plant emits an unpleasant sour smell. The period of fruit ripening usually falls at the beginning of spring and lasts about six months.

Fu, what an abomination!

This product, despite the wide range of useful properties, is completely closed for export to other countries. Residents of our country can try the "forbidden fruit" only when traveling to Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia and other Asian countries, where, by the way, the popularity of this fruit just rolls over. Residents of Thailand, for example, compare durian with a kind of deity that can cause hellish hallucinations when inhaling its smell and heavenly pleasures from tasting.

The smell of durian is very different from the aromas of other fresh fruits. There is a huge number of comparisons of this smell. Some of those who happened to feel the amber emanating from it characterize its stench, which is exuded by rotten eggs. In the Middle Ages, when the first British arrived in India, travel books compared the smell of durian to the process of eating moldy cheese and spoiled fried onions over an open sewer manhole. Rotten fish, garlic, turpentine - this is only part of what this disgusting smell is associated with.

Interesting! Do you know why durian smells so bad? The secret lies in the peel of the fruit, which contains a huge amount of organic sulfur. It is this substance that is the cause of such an unpleasant amber.

In the countries of Southeast Asia, a whole set of rules has been developed for this product. A person who buys durian in the market should go straight home. He is not allowed to enter shops, banks, cinemas and cafes. All residents of Asian countries know about this, and special signs are hung in public places for tourists.

Now do you understand why the export of this amazingly tasty and healthy fruit is prohibited? Even one unripe durian fruit, wrapped in a large amount of paper, is able to saturate absolutely all compartments of the aircraft with its disgusting smell in a matter of minutes.

When the taste is on the verge of heavenly delight

Now you know what the durian fruit smells like, the photo of which is posted in this article. It remains to figure out what it tastes like.

I must say that not everyone manages to taste the taste of durian the first time. But after several attempts, even worldly-wise people cannot be dissuaded from the sophistication and sophistication of the sensations obtained while eating the fruit. Although there are those who begin to hate this fruit.

There are as many descriptions of the taste from those who have already tried it as there are statements about the smell. The only fact, the plausibility of which is usually not disputed, is the following: there are no two durian fruits that are the same in taste and smell. The shade of taste may depend on storage conditions, place of growth, variety and ripening stage. Most often, the fruit is characterized by the presence of notes of vanilla, creamy ice cream, warm pastries. In some cases, durian is compared to the taste of fried onions or a delicious salad with mayonnaise.

Useful properties of the "king of fruits"

Residents of Southeast Asia use this famous exotic fruit not only as a delicacy that can be enjoyed in the heat, but also for medicinal purposes. Let's see what is useful durian.

Due to its high iron content, durian can be used in anemia treatment. Its daily use has a beneficial effect on the state of the endocrine system, improves heart function. The specific structure of dietary fiber helps improve bowel function to minimize the risk of constipation. Also, durian is an excellent antidepressant, eating it for breakfast is the key to a good mood for the whole day. The fruit contains tryptophan. During digestion, this substance quickly turns into serotonin, which contributes to the development of the "happiness hormone" so important for us. Thanks to its sufficient amount, a person is less irritated, general well-being improves, and a depressive outlook on life disappears.

Dear ladies, if you are traveling with your soulmate, durian is worth a try for both of you. Asian chestnut has an incredible effect on the female hormonal system, makes the reproductive function work in an enhanced mode, and has a strong effect on male potency. Residents of Asian countries on this occasion even came up with a saying on this occasion: "When the durian falls down, sarongs fly up."

To all the above benefits of the fruit, we can add that it is high in calories and nutritional value. One hundred grams of the product accounts for 150 kcal! Do you want to keep the beauty of your figure on vacation? Eat a few slices of durian on an empty stomach, and you will be charged with energy and positive for the whole day. In the heat, it is very difficult to force yourself to eat a piece of meat, and this fruit is a great way to eat well.

There are contraindications

When using durian, you must strictly adhere to strict rules:

• Never drink alcohol after eating this exotic fruit. This combination can cause a sharp jump in blood pressure. It is not uncommon for people to be hospitalized with a heart attack after drinking alcohol and eating durian.
• Hypertension! Use this product with caution, otherwise you will have to get medicines from the first-aid kit to stabilize pressure.
• Do not try this fruit during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

• Those who are trying to keep their figure should not abuse durian and limit its use to a few slices a day. With it, it is easy to gain a couple of extra pounds.
• Do not try to smuggle fruit into a hotel or plane. It is immediately confiscated, and you risk becoming persona non grata.

How to store durian fruit?

The answer to this question is very simple: the fruit is never stored and is only eaten fresh. Some connoisseurs claim that durian can be stored at home for 3-5 days. This opinion is fundamentally erroneous, because during this time the whole apartment and things will be so saturated with a fetid “aroma” that you can hardly get rid of it in a short time. Rest assured, the owner of rented housing will not appreciate the benefits of such a "neighborhood". Freezing this product is also not recommended. After defrosting, it loses all its excellent taste properties and can no longer be eaten.

Durian can only be eaten fresh, carefully removing the skin with your hands and scraping the pulp with a spoon. There is one important argument in favor of using the last cutlery: the smell of this exotic fruit on the hands is very difficult to get rid of.

With the help of durian slices, you can create exotic cocktails, ice cream and other incredibly delicious desserts. If you want your relatives and close friends to try durian, buy them sweets stuffed with this exotic fruit as a gift.

How to choose the best of the best?

"Krol fruit" can only be eaten when fully ripe. Such fruits are usually sold in Thai markets. When tapped, a muffled sound should come out, and the spikes are slightly retracted. The peel should not be very dense, but not soft. In the market, you can buy a whole piece of fruit or ask the merchant to cut it and pack it. If the fruit does not smell of anything, do not buy it, the durian has not had time to ripen. A too sickening smell, on the contrary, indicates that the fruit has been stale on the counter.

What do women say?

Not all of us are resistant to unpleasant odors, so before buying, it is better to read the reviews of 6-7 women about the durian fruit, the photo of which you have already read while reading our article. We carefully studied the forums and highlighted a few opinions for you to review:

Olga, 32 years old: I've been wanting to try durian for a long time, but never got around to it. Having traveled to Vietnam and bought this fruit at one of the markets, I realized why the locals consider it very tasty. Feelings indescribable!

Ekaterina, 58 years old: I must say, durian is a great aphrodisiac. It awakens sexual desire and keeps male potency at the highest level. We have been living in Malaysia for several years and our sex life has never been so active.

Evgenia, 23 years old: Durian is very high in calories. I do not recommend using it in large quantities. During the holidays, I ate it for several weeks in a row, the result is three extra pounds.

Valentina, 42 years old: During a visit to Thailand, she became addicted to durian, and did not regret it. Due to the presence of organic sulfur in its composition, my hair and nails have become stronger. Silky hair pleases with natural brilliance and beauty, and nails no longer delaminate.

Tatyana, 25 years old: Durian should only be bought in the markets, and it is advisable to ask the merchant to cut the fruit in your presence. This will keep you from buying unripe fruit and help you enjoy durian without the bad smell. If you follow all the rules, this fruit can please you with a unique taste and pleasant texture.

So, as you have already understood, durian is a very healthy and tasty product. It contains a large amount of iron, which helps to cope with such a serious disease as anemia. If you have not had time to try it yet, do not expect to be able to buy fruit in the nearest supermarket. A strong fetid "aroma" does not allow durian to be imported to other countries.

Of all the known fruits, it is durian that deserves such polar characteristics. And it is even impossible to imagine how true they are. The smell of durian is so disgusting that they are not allowed into hotels, shops, elevators, taxis and other public places with it. Even with there is a special sign- durian crossed out with a red line. This means that entry with it is prohibited. Indeed, even after the fruit is eaten, such a “flavor” remains in the room that it cannot be weathered for a long time by any cosmetic means. For the same reason, durian is not subject to long-term storage and transportation.

What only epithets do not reward his aroma! The smell of decaying flesh, rotten onions, dirty socks, toilets, rotten eggs... An Englishman who visited Siam in the 19th century describes his impressions of the durian aroma as follows: "it's akin to eating a herring with blue cheese over an open sewer manhole."

And after all this, he is called the “king of fruits”?! Is this possible? Perhaps, - Thais, Malaysians answer, - if, holding your nose and overcoming disgust, you still try the pulp of durian. And only then you will understand how “divine” taste she has. The Thais claim that durian is actually sweet in taste and is similar to a sweet cream made from eggs and milk. According to renowned naturalist Alfred Russell Wallace, “Trying durian is a whole new experience, and a trip to the East is worth it. The more you eat durian, the less you want to be distracted by something else.” And in general, for true gourmets, this fruit proudly occupies one of the places of honor among such well-known "fragrant" delicacies as Chinese "rotten" eggs, Swedish surströmming and the famous Roquefort cheese, covered with green mold...

The name of the fruit comes from the Malay word "duri" (thorn) and the Malay suffix "an", which means "thorny fruit". Durian is native to Indonesia, Thailand, India, Ceylon, Indochina, Philippines. By the way, it is believed that the most delicious durians grow on plantations near Bangkok in Thailand. It is also cultivated on plantations in central Africa and Brazil. Usually a mature fruit weighs 2-3 kg, has a diameter of 15-25 cm and a length of 20-30 cm. It grows in large trees. It reaches a height of 15-20 meters, gives the first fruits already for 8-10 years. And then it bears fruit all year round. It blooms for less than eight hours: bright white flowers open at dusk and fall by dawn. They say that they are pollinated by bats. The fruit is by no means plucked. Ripe, it must fall by itself. If the durian falls on his head (God forbid!), then it will not seem small. Individual fruits the size of a good soccer ball weigh about 10 kg. Plus they have sharp spikes.

Unripe fruits local population cooks like boiled vegetables as part of various dishes, and ripe fruits are really exquisite dessert of exceptional taste with a wide range of nutrients. This fruit rich in carbohydrates, proteins, fats and vitamins. Durian pulp contains a lot complex vitamins B, and the amount of vitamin C is much more than that contained in a sweet orange. And its specific smell is attributed to the presence of organic sulfur, the healing properties of which are just being studied.

A good durian has a sweet flavor, smooth texture, rich custard-like flavor reminiscent of banana, mango, pineapple, overripe papaya, and vanilla. The disgusting smell comes from a thick prickly peel, studded with thorns of a menacing appearance and size. Inside, the fruit is divided into slices with white walls, in each section there are three to four large shiny seeds from beige to bright yellow (depending on the variety and ripeness of the durian). They will reward with their taste everyone who can cope with the smell. Beginning gourmets and tourists most often come to the aid of a seller who can advise the right fruit - not overripe or rotten on the side, not with clots, because they usually smell strongly of hydrogen sulfide, and not underripe.

It is most convenient to eat durian with a spoon, otherwise the stubborn smell cannot be washed off with any soap. Out of habit, for the first time, durian is eaten in the same way as they drink vodka. First, they exhale air from themselves, and then sharply bring the fruit to their mouth. By the way, durian should not be washed down with strong liquor. It is not compatible with them, but for some reason many tourists neglect this advice and then suffer from severe stomach irritation. An example can be taken from the locals, they wash down the delicacy with ordinary salted water, which is poured into an empty bowl-shaped half of a giant shell.

Durian is so satisfying that having eaten a "slice" in the morning, it is easily enough until dinner. At the same time, there is not even a slight feeling of hunger.

The peoples of South Asia appreciate durian for its great taste and medicinal properties, but they buy it very rarely and most often for children, since this delicacy is sold at a fairly high price. For example, in the UK, durian can be bought for about 15-25 pounds, in the USA - for 5-20 dollars, and in Thailand itself, even in season, a small piece of pulp is sold for no less than 70 baht (about 3 US dollars) .

But the price doesn't stop tourists curious to new tastes. An illustration of getting to know durian can be the story of a certain Russian tourist, who emotionally and colorfully shared his feelings on this strange fruit on the Internet: “Do you know what onions smell like? And the rotten onion? And the vegetable store, where all the onions are rotten? This is the smell spread from this delicacy. I already had tears in my eyes. If such a meal had been offered to me at a party, I would not have touched it. But now, out of sheer stubbornness, I had to try at least a small piece and try it. Holding my nose and closing my eyes, I pinched off a piece of the oily paste that made up the inside of the durian. And then I experienced a culture shock. It tasted like the most delicate, sweet cream, reminiscent of the sweetest varieties of dried apricots, mixed with cream and chocolate. And only somewhere in the background - a slight aftertaste of baked onions. In surprise, I opened my nose - and immediately spat out this muck ... But, it was too tasty ... In general, so I ate it, pinching my nose, to the end.

All about the exotic Asian fruit - durian. What is this exotic and how it is eaten and what. What are the beneficial properties of durian and what harm can it bring to the body. Calorie content of the pulp and useful vitamins with trace elements.

The content of the article:

Durian is a tropical tree of the Malvaceae family. The name durian was born in Malaysia (translated as "thorn") with the suffix -an. The French call it durione, the Germans call it Durianbaum or Stinkfrucht. For over 600 years, the fruit has been cultivated in Malaysia, Indochina, India and southern Thailand. Very rare - in South and Latin America. It grows mainly in humid tropical lowland climates. Of the 30 varieties of plants, only 9 are edible. Each variety has a unique taste and aroma. Only Durio zibethinus can be found in stores.

Durian is an evergreen tree with spreading branches. These giants reach a height of up to 40 m. The leaves are leathery and shiny, arranged alternately, pointed. Their upper side is smooth, and the lower side is covered with fleecy scales. On the trunk and hanging branches, compressed semi-umbrellas of flowers are formed, the calyx of which has only three petals and resembles a bell in shape. It blooms for only a few hours: white, pink or golden brown flowers have a heavy sour smell, open at dusk and fall by dawn. The main period of fruit ripening is from the beginning of spring to the end of summer.

Fruits of spherical shape (often slightly elongated) develop on trunks and branches and reach a diameter of up to 30 cm and can weigh up to 10 kg. The fruit, green on the outside, has a rough fibrous structure and a hard shell, which is densely covered with pyramidal spines.

Inside the fruit boxes are shiny seeds, ranging in size from 2 to 6 cm. Their color is from red-brown to pale yellow. The flesh is thick, creamy yellow. The unripe fruit smells... like fresh grass. But the more it matures, the more peculiar it becomes, turning into a very corrosive, sweetish-putrid.

Due to the unpleasant smell in Asian countries, it is sometimes forbidden to bring durian into public places, such as transport, some hotels, shops, etc. There is even a special warning sign for tourists - durian, crossed out with a red line. This means that it is forbidden to enter the room with exotic fruit. After all, its “aroma” for a long time cannot be removed even with the help of cosmetics. In Thailand, this exotic is forbidden by law to take out of the country, this is reported at airports. Do not even try to do this, otherwise there may be big problems later. Eat it there at the resort, as it is considered the No. 1 fruit in Thailand. Though "hellish" stinks of hydrogen sulfide, but delicious!

There is a beautiful legend about the origin of this fruit.

Many thousands of years ago there lived a king in Asia. He fell in love with a beautiful girl who did not reciprocate. Then he turned to the magician for help. He gave a magical fruit with a marvelous aroma and a charming sweet taste. The girl tasted the fruit and immediately fell in love with the king. And the ruler was so delighted that he completely forgot to thank the magician. The wizard became furious and cursed these wonderful fruits. When the king came to the garden for a new "fruit of love", he saw a prickly, stinking fruit on a tree. Angry, the king threw it on the ground, but, splitting, the inside of the fruit turned out to be just as tasty as before. That is why the king named it "durian".

Durian is often referred to as the "King of Fruits" because of its unique taste. And for good reason - the taste of ripe fruits is exceptionally good: it has sweetness, rich, like custard, vaguely reminiscent of papaya and vanilla. Choose a slightly soft pulp, do not take very hard - it is not ripe. The unripe fruit is almost tasteless, if the fruit is overripe, then the flesh begins to taste bitter. For true gourmets, durian is a real delicacy. It is believed that eat it immediately after opening: this is the only way to feel the whole flavor bouquet.

Eat durian with your hand, breaking and removing the pulp. Although, it is much more convenient to use a spoon (it is difficult to “wash off” the smell that has ingrained into the skin). Locals drink the fruit with salted water. Usually, it is poured into an empty bowl-shaped half of the shell. Very popular in Thailand are durian pieces, which are marinated in coconut milk and served at the table. And pies with such a filling will obviously not leave indifferent even the most fastidious eater!

In addition, durian pairs perfectly with coffee and gourmets consider this breakfast one of the most sophisticated culinary delights. Even in Thai cuisine, its pulp is added to mousses and ice cream, jam is prepared.

If the fruit is not ripe, then it is used as a vegetable: cut into slices and fried or stewed with spices. And from durian and pumpkin, Thais prepare pasta, which is used as a spice. Sayur, (this is an Indonesian fresh fish soup), the red pulp of durian gives a unique taste and aroma. The seeds are not thrown away, but roasted and consumed as a condiment. Also, local residents boil the pulp with sugar and preserve it.

Video: how to cut, carve and eat:

Ingredients: vitamins and minerals

The fruit is very rich in vitamins, fats, carbohydrates (27.09 g) and proteins. On the other hand, the pulp of the fruit contains vitamin C (19.7 mg - about 33% of the required daily intake), carotene, B vitamins (riboflavin, niacin, folic acid), nicotinic acid and essential minerals: iron, phosphorus and calcium.

It also contains indole, thanks to which durian has not only a terrible smell, but also bactericidal properties. And yet, durian is the only edible fruit containing organic sulfur, which is valued for its ability to remove toxins from the body. In addition, it is a component of proteins and hormones, it is present in the cells of the nervous and bone tissue, hair and skin. The high content of sucrose and fructose make the fruit a valuable source of energy.

durian calories per 100 g of pulp is 147 kcal:

• Proteins - 1.47 g
• Fats - 5.33 g
• Carbohydrates - 23.29 g
• Water - 64.99 g
• Dietary fiber - 3.8 g
• Ash - 1.12 g
• Cholesterol - 0 g

Useful properties of durian for the body

Durian is very satisfying, a fruit that instantly satisfies hunger. But the inhabitants of Southeast Asia not only feast on them, but also use them in folk medicine.

The leaves of the plant contain hydroxytryptamine and mustard oil. Therefore, they are used as an effective antipyretic for infectious and colds. Baths with durian leaves help with bile spills. The pulp of the fruit is an excellent anthelmintic, and the seeds help in the treatment of diarrhea. The roots of the plant are used as an antiviral agent. The combination of minerals, vitamins, amino acids and sulfur can increase the protective functions of the body. But perhaps the most remarkable property of this exotic plant is the ability to increase potency. Folk beliefs even attribute rejuvenating power to durian.

Video about the benefits of durian:

Harm and contraindications of durian

It is strictly contraindicated to eat durian for people suffering from high blood pressure and patients with hypertension.

Durian should not be combined with alcoholic beverages: this can cause severe poisoning with subsequent complications. It is also not recommended for women during pregnancy and lactation. Durian is also contraindicated in case of individual intolerance by the body.

In all other cases, eat it to your health!

You may not have tried durian fruit yet ( ), but you've probably heard of it. They emit a strong, enveloping and very specific aroma.

This is the only fruit in the world that gourmets love as much as others hate. To some people, the aroma seems tasty and pleasant, to others it is simply disgusting and may resemble the smell of rotten fish.

Especially popular are the edible fruits of durian (there are only 9 varieties out of 30), this named "king of fruits", in the countries of Southeast Asia (in Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia). belongs to the family Malvaceae, which combines many exotic plants such as hibiscus and okra.

However, regardless of the degree of its gastronomic appeal, durian fruits have beneficial properties, some of which may surprise you.

Reduces constipation

Durian fruits are rich in dietary fiber. It absorbs water well, swells as it passes through the digestive tract, gently accelerates intestinal motility, preventing constipation. Natural fiber helps to eliminate carcinogens from the body and prevents the development of bowel cancer.

Prevents anemia

Anemia is not always caused by a lack of iron in the body. Deficiency in the body of folate (vitamin B9) is another negative factor for the development of another type of anemia. The specified vitamin is involved in the production of normal red blood cells, and there is plenty of it in durian fruits. The small amounts of copper and iron found in these fruits also aid in the formation of blood cells.

Beneficial effect on the skin

Vitamin C is involved in the production of collagen, an important protein component of the skin, as well as bones, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels. Doctors attribute powerful wound healing properties to it, while one glass of durian pulp contains 80% of the adult daily value of this vitamin.

Good for bones

The king of fruits is rich in potassium, which helps to maintain healthy doses of calcium in the body and prevents the rapid excretion of this mineral along with urine. Potassium by itself nourishes the bone tissue quite well and prevents the bones from becoming too brittle.

Against diabetes

Manganese in durian regulates blood sugar levels, prevents the development of diabetes and is an essential component of the health of the human endocrine system. The body uses this trace element as a cofactor for an antioxidant enzyme called superoxide dismutase.

For the thyroid gland

In addition to iodine, for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland, the maintenance of its metabolic processes, the reproduction of hormones, another trace element is needed - copper. Copper is also present in the pulp of durian.

Improves digestion

The King of Fruits is also loaded with thiamine, which is responsible for normal appetite and helps produce hydrochloric acid for faster digestion.

Relieves migraines

Are you suffering from migraines? Durian will help ease the pain. The riboflavin found in the pulp of the fruit (vitamin of group B) is considered a very effective remedy for getting rid of severe headaches.

Fights depression

The beneficial properties of durian as a natural antidepressant are supported by a high concentration of the amino acid (AA) tryptophan. This amino acid is often tacitly referred to as "natural sleeping powder". In the human body, it is converted to serotonin and melatonin, neurochemicals that play an important role in sleep induction and epilepsy prevention.

In addition, vitamin B6 is an important element in the fight against depression. Lack of this particular vitamin can lead to severe depression. Studies have shown that patients with a deficiency of this nutrient in the body experienced depression, were in a persistently bad mood, experienced bouts of irritability and periods of deep depression.

An exceptional feature is also that it is rich in B vitamins - a rarity among exotic fruits. Its exotic fruits contain niacin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), pyridoxine (vitamin B6) and thiamine (vitamin B1). These nutrients are essential for the health of the nervous system.

Strengthens teeth

To maintain healthy teeth and gums, calcium needs the help of phosphorus, which is found in durian fruits like many other valuable minerals.

energy wealth

Like some of the other fruits of the tropics such as bananas, avocados and jackfruit, durian is rich in energy that it can transfer to the human body. In 100 g of fresh pulp, there are 147 calories, a lot of easily digestible sucrose and fructose, which are ready to instantly replenish the body's energy reserves.

Even though durian fruits are relatively high in fat among fruits, they are free of saturated fat and cholesterol.

In addition to all of the above, the beneficial properties of durian include the development of the body's resistance against infections, boosting immunity, protection against free radicals, strengthening the heart muscle and normalizing blood pressure.

Selection and storage

Durian is a seasonal fruit. The harvest runs from June to August and coincides with the harvest of many other tropical fruits such as mangosteen (or mangosteen), jackfruit and mango. It is best to buy them at the specified time.

Outside the homeland, the king of fruits is one of the most expensive fruits, especially the Sultan variety (D24), which is in demand in the USA and European countries. In the refrigerator, fruits can be stored for only a few days.

You will have to determine the preferred degree of maturity yourself. Some people like slightly unripe fruits, more fragrant, while others prefer fully ripened specimens.

In addition to the pulp, oval-shaped durian seeds can also be eaten, but only in boiled form. They taste like jackfruit seeds, although not everyone likes them.

Modern man is characterized by the desire for everything exotic. This is manifested in various areas of life, including in relation to food. One of the most extravagant and extraordinary fruits is the durian. He is recognized as the king of fruits and looks quite unusual. What is it, what does an unusual fruit look like, what are its benefits and harms, how to choose it and eat it - let's figure it out.

What it is?

Durian civet belongs to the genus of evergreen tropical plants of the Malvaceae family. To date, about 30 varieties of this fruit are known, which grow in the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. These plants are large trees with weak branching. They have prop roots and regular leaves. It is noteworthy that only 9 of the known 30 varieties are suitable for food.

Description

Durian flowers are large, whitish or reddish depending on the variety. They can develop not only on branches, but also on trunks. They are pollinated not only by bees, but also by bats, since durian blooms from dusk to night for no more than 8 hours. The fruit of the plant is distinguished by a particularly hard shell with characteristic spines. This feature allows you to protect the unripe fruit from animals. It is because of its appearance that the fruit got its name, which means “thorn” or “thorn” in translation.

Despite the fact that it grows not only in Malaysia, Thailand, India and Indochina, but also in South America, Asian fruit is in great demand among gourmets. It is grown in a more comfortable climate, ripens from spring to the end of the summer season. It is harvested when the fruits themselves fall to the ground. According to the general description, in terms of dimensions, durian reaches the parameters of a soccer ball. Weight varies from 2 to 10 kg, the shape is often elongated. Sometimes the fruit even reaches a length of up to 30 cm, while the diameter can be 20–25 cm.

No matter how big a durian may seem, more than half of its weight is in the peel than in the juicy flesh. The inside of the durian has white walls and is divided into segments. In each "compartment" there are 3-4 yellowish seeds. As a rule, inside the fetus there are 5 compartments, approximately the same in size. Four of them are filled with pulp, and the bones are located in the fifth.

Peculiarities

A distinctive feature of the fruit is the fact that it has a disgusting smell. Therefore, few people immediately believe that durian can be eaten. It smells so bad that you can't take it into public places with you. It is not only impossible to go to a store or take a taxi with it: the ban even applies to transportation in an elevator, as evidenced by a special sign of a fruit crossed out with a red line. This is explained by the fact that the fetid spirit of the Thai fruit cannot be weathered by any means. That is why exotic durian can neither be stored nor transported. The stench is so terrible that it is difficult to describe it, but the pulp itself has a divine taste, for which durian is called the king of fruits.

The taste of a ripe fruit with a smooth texture is sweet. It is rich, like a mixture of banana, mango, pineapple, papaya and vanilla. As for the smell of the shell itself, it can be compared with a mixture of the “aroma” of sewerage, rotten fish and rotten meat, or a putrid smell. It even seems to some that in this stink one can distinguish the smells of a ton of rotten onions, because some tourists have tears when they meet durian. As for the amount of pulp inside the fruit, it is not very much: a lot falls on a thick peel with thorns. The flesh of a ripe fruit itself does not have spots, it is of the same consistency and color.

Composition and calories

The fetid smell of durian is explained by the presence of sulfuric acid in the composition of the fruit. An exotic fruit is saturated with proteins, fats and carbohydrates, it contains many vitamins, and its absence of cholesterol distinguishes it. Delicious pulp is rich in ascorbic, nicotinic and folic acids. It contains niacin, carotene, riboflavin, calcium, iron and phosphorus. As for calories, one hundred grams of durian contains 145 kilocalories. These data are typical for raw and frozen fruit. However, an excess of durian in food can cause obesity.

Benefit and harm

Unusual Thai fruit has certain beneficial properties. For example, having organic sulfur in its composition, durian is rightfully recognized as one of the unique exotic fruits. Indole, which is the source of organic sulfur, is especially necessary for the human body, as it has bactericidal properties. Thanks to the dietary fiber, durian is effective for constipation. It perfectly absorbs water, due to which peristalsis is accelerated and carcinogens are excreted from the body. This nuance helps to prevent bowel cancer.

Durian is also effective against anemia, as it is a preventive measure. It improves the condition of hair and skin, and also has a positive effect on strengthening bones and the thyroid gland. In addition, it helps in the treatment of diabetes and has a positive effect on the digestive system. And also an exotic fruit is good for migraines and depressive states. Being an unsurpassed aphrodisiac and containing a huge amount of estrogen, durian is responsible for the normalization of female hormonal levels, which is important for every woman. It is worth noting that this affects not only the general condition of the woman, but also her fertility.

It is also good for men's health. Durian can be used as a remedy to help restore energy. It not only helps to cleanse the skin, but also gives it elasticity and firmness. Due to the content of phosphorus in the pulp in combination with potassium, it not only strengthens the teeth, but also treats some gum diseases. In addition, the use of an unusual fruit has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the cardiovascular system.

However, in addition to the beneficial properties for the human body, durian also has negative aspects. For example, no matter how tasty it may seem, and no matter how much you want to eat it, it is contraindicated for pregnant women. In addition, it should not be used while breastfeeding. The use of durian can also affect pressure, so hypertensive patients need to eat the pulp of the fetus with extreme caution. Otherwise, it is fraught with sudden pressure surges.

There are other restrictions, if ignored, the use of durian can cause significant harm to health. For example, you need to take into account not only incompatibility with alcohol, but also the time period between which you can not drink after drinking durian. As a rule, in order not to harm your health, you need to wait at least four hours. In addition, you need to understand that the fetus cannot completely replace any meal.

You can’t eat more than two hundred grams at a time, combining fruit with other foods. And also it is impossible not to take into account the likelihood of individual intolerance and an allergic reaction. There is evidence for this: in some cases, there is a rash, an allergic rhinitis, and even swelling of the nasopharynx.

How to choose?

Despite the fact that durian has a rather high cost (about 5-20 US dollars), tourists rarely manage to avoid the temptation to taste the exotic. Sometimes this fruit is sold already peeled on a substrate. However, not every fruit has a true divine taste. In order not to get into trouble, and not to be disappointed with the fruit, which even in its native country cannot be transported and exported once again, it is worth considering the following nuances:

• a ripe fruit differs from others in that it is split; if its peel began to crack (mainly into 5 slices), then this is the first sign of a good fruit;
• as soon as the peel cracks, the fruit begins to exude aroma, while it is the edible part of the durian (its pulp) that smells;
• if a rotten part is seen on one side, such a fruit is not suitable for eating, moreover, its pulp will have clots, which should not be in a good ripe product;
• to buy a good fruit, you should look at the peel at the location of the tail, you can even sniff it: the more pronounced the aroma, the riper the fruit;

• the peel of a ripe durian differs in the color of the thorns - in a good ripe fruit they are yellow with brown tips;
• you can pay attention to the mobility of the thorns - if the fruit is unripe, when touched they remain motionless, in a ripe fruit they are slightly mobile;
• you can also determine the ripeness by the sound, for which it would be useful to tap on the casing - a dull sound will indicate immaturity, while the one you need will be accompanied by loud sounds and a characteristic internal gurgling.

The flesh of a ripe fruit differs in appearance, the ripened fruit is soft when pressed and slightly squeezed. In terms of density, it resembles raw dough. Someone even associates with cream whipped with fruit.

When buying, you can ask the seller to peel and cut the fruit. An experienced seller is usually interested in buyers, so he will try to pick the best fruit. As for transportation, a tourist will not be able to bring a piece of exotic to their homeland: durian cannot be exported, they will not be allowed on a plane with it.

How to eat?

In fact, it would be erroneous to call categorically eating durian with a spoon. Everyone experiences fruit differently. Many, because of the hostility of a bad smell, completely pinch their nose, and at this time they put a piece of pulp in their mouth. It is worth considering that this fruit is not combined with vodka, so you can’t drink it with it. No matter how much you want to feel like a gourmet, the fruit is not combined with alcohol at all. Ignoring this nuance can cause severe irritation of the stomach.

The fruit itself can be eaten not only fresh. It is often boiled, and also added to national dishes. It has a peculiar taste that everyone associates with different products. If it seems to some that it is airy cheese, then others are sure that it even looks like vanilla pastries. They eat durian in the first 3-4 hours after purchase, while trying not to bring it into the room.

If you do not want to use a spoon, you can break off pieces of tender pulp with your hands. Often, durian is put into cocktails, cut into slices. The dried fruit is also popular with tourists. It does not smell so sharp, so it does not scare off buyers. In cooking, the fruit is also used as a seasoning for various dishes. To do this, take not the pulp, but the seeds. When the pulp is taken out, one of the shells is used for salted water, which is washed down with durian. Among the various recipes, pies with an unusual fruit filling are noteworthy, for which chopped pieces of fruit are used.

As for gourmets, after several trials, they stop noticing the unpleasant smell and assure that the taste interrupts all negative emotions. They are sure that in order to fully reveal the taste qualities, it is necessary to drink durian with lightly salted water. In addition, marinated marinated durian in coconut milk is considered one of the best desserts. If at the time of purchase it turned out that the fruit has not yet ripened, do not be upset. Of course, it will not be possible to reveal all its taste qualities, but it is quite suitable for food.

In this case, it can be used as a vegetable. For example, it will be delicious if stewed, fried and served with a side dish.

How to reveal?

If the fruit is purchased unopened, you will have to do the cleaning process yourself. The bottom line is to crack open the hard shell and take out the pulp. Previously, a regular plate or a plastic container is prepared for it. The pulp is taken out with a spoon or by hand and transferred to a prepared container. If you do not plan to eat durian right away, it is better to use a container, transferring the tasty part of the fruit there and tightly closing the container.

Is there any way to store and transport?

With regard to fresh fruit, we can say unequivocally: no. If the fruit is open, eat it immediately. It will not work in any way, it is useless even to wrap it in layers of a thin film - it will not retain its qualities. Despite the fact that there is an opinion to the contrary, which indicates a period of 5 days of storage. Freezing the fruit is also not recommended, because, in addition to the loss of useful properties, it will also lose its excellent taste. However, in dried form, like candy or even candied fruits, the fruit is quite transportable.

In addition to the fact that in such options you can export durians from exotic countries, they will also be stored for a long time. Therefore, upon arrival home, it will be possible to treat the household with extra-tasty desserts.

What else is interesting durian?

Durian can reach a height of up to 40 meters. These trees are quite spreading. The fruit is considered a national delicacy for children. On holidays, it is important to eat it with the whole family in one sitting. This eating is elevated to a certain ritual, besides, the fruit is given healing and rejuvenating power. In Thai culture, it is considered a medicine.

The pulp of the fruit will allow you to create unusually delicious milkshakes. In addition to dried fruits and chips, it is added to ice cream. You can fry it like a regular potato. It is added to pumpkin, fish soups and even cooked as jam. At the same time, in the national cuisine it is a fairly common component of the recipe. It is delicious with sweets, sugar, and salt along with other vegetables.

Important! Sickness of smell in different subspecies of durian is different. The size of the fruits also varies, with the smaller ones smelling less strongly. The arrangement of the bones also differs.

Difference from jackfruit

Durian is often confused with jackfruit, because outwardly there really is a resemblance. However, there are differences from jackfruit. For example, its spikes are not so pronounced, and it weighs more. In addition, it is considered the fruit of the breadfruit, reaches up to 30 kg of weight and has a pear-shaped shape. And also one of the differences is the fact that jackfruit has milky juice, which determines its stickiness and viscosity. At the same time, not only the pulp is saturated with juice, but also the peel itself. Wash your hands after contact with such a substance more often with oil.