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| different types of durian for sale at the farmer's market |
Durian is called the "King of Fruit" in Thailand. It's a legendary delicacy that is impossible not to have an opinion of. People either love it or hate it. Absolutely nobody feels ambivalently towards durian.
The durian is probably best known for its smell. People have tried to compare it to other unpleasant odors, but the truth is, it's really just strong. I'm not even sure if I would describe it as a bad smell per se, just unfamiliar and alien to a western nose.
The taste, however, is what people crave. It's sweet, rich, and creamy. In fact, durian is so rich as to make it downright decadent - a calorie-dense dessert that appeals to only the bravest and most seasoned of foodies.
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| fresh, whole durian |
Durian is especially popular in Malaysia and Indonesia, and as a matter of fact, the Indonesian capital Jakarta is nicknamed "The Big Durian"! It's popular in Thailand too, where durian farmers make millions on their prized fruits.
I didn't used to like durian at all. I thought it was weird. Over the years, I've developed quite an appreciation for it. Nowadays, I love durian chips. I like durian coffee and durian ice cream well enough. I do enjoy the fresh fruit, though it's a little expensive, and I only rarely buy it. I started to like durian after visiting a durian farm a few years back.
The experience at the farm, when we had a guided durian tasting by a local farmer, taught me to appreciate the rich and complex flavors of the fruit.
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| segments of durian wrapped in paper and ready to buy |
While I don't necessarily go out of my way to get it, I have to admit that I like it now. I do enjoy when I eat it, though that's usually only once or twice a year.
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