Some of the most interesting and exotics fruits in the world exist in Asia, and much of the Western world might not either be aware or exposed to them, due to the fact that they aren’t popular in certain countries and/or regions. The durian might not be the most popular fruit in the world, but it is certainly a unique and polarizing fruit. One aspect of the fruit which is well-known is its intense smell, which some regard as quite pleasant, and others describe as - to put it mildly - extremely off-putting.
The smell is part of what has made the durian infamous over the years. In fact, Anthony Bourdain, the famous American chef, author, and travel documentarian, has statedthat the fruit smells as if you had “french-kissed your dead grandmother”, to give you an idea of how unpleasant some have found the odor. Interestingly enough, it holds the status as a “king of fruits” to many in Asia, as well. There was actually a study conductedon Thai durian that concluded that the durian contains over 40 chemical compounds, four of which were not known before. Of course, there are over 90 varieties of durian, so there is some variety in taste and smell, as well. Durian is also difficult to cultivate, as well, which makes it extremely expensive, which might be part of the reason why it is considered a “king of fruits”.
The Durian In Thai Culture
The durian holds a special place in Thai culture, but the name actually comes from the Old Malay language word “durih”, which means “thorn”, and describes the thorn-covered rind of the fruit. However, despite the fact that the durian might have Malaysian roots in terms of language, guess what country is the number one exporter of durian? You guessed it: Thailand. This has helped Thailand’s economy significantly. For example, thanks to improved technology and infrastructure, Thai’s durian exportshave exploded, which makes it a point of pride for locals. China, and Chinese tourism, is a huge factor that has helped to improve the “durian economy” of Thailand. The fruit is also even banned in various public spaces, such as airports hotels, and public transportation, because of its smell. The durian is considered ready to eat when the actual husk begins to crash, although certain regions in Thailand prefer to eat the fruit a little before the fruit reaches this point.
Unlike other fruits that Thailand might celebrate, there are actual festivalsthat are celebrated in honor of the fruit! This includes the Chanthaburi Festival, which is considered to be the unofficial World Durian Festival. The fruit is so popular in this specific city that you will see the fruit depicted in many random places, such as street signs, or license plates. The Si Sa Ket Durian festival is also gaining traction, and a particularly large durian was auctioned offfor a record price last year, showing how strong the demand is for the unique fruit.
You might be wondering what the durian is used for in Thai cuisine, and the answer is that it is often advertised as a fruit on roadside stands and markets, and there are many that prefer to serve the durian as a dessert, where it is cooked with palm sugar. It’s also simply considered a traditional “flavor” in Thailand, which means that you can find durian flavors of everything from ice cream, milkshakes, cappuccino, candy, biscuits, and more.
Durian Health Benefits
The durian is known as the “king of fruits” not only because of its size, but perhaps because it is alsovery healthy, which have led some to categorize the durian as a “superfruit”. Before we speak about how it can help your body physically, the durian can actually improve your mental health! That’s right, the durian is rich in Vitamin B6, which is essential to serotonin production, which plays a major role in overcoming depression.
The durian also is a big source of dietary fiber, which helps with regards to digestion in general. That’s not all - it also contains potassium, to help with respect with blood pressure, as well. As if all of that wasn’t enough, the durian is also known to enhance your libido - which might help if you happen to be on a romantic trip.
Where To Find It?
For those wondering where to find the durian - if you are staying at the Centre Point Hotel Pattaya, you’re in luck! The Threppasit Road Night Market is a quick ten-minute ride away, and has more than enough durian to satisfy your urges.
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