What Is Durian?
A tropical fruit renowned for its large size, thorny husk, distinctive strong aroma, and creamy, sweet flesh.
What Does Durian Taste Like?
Durian has a sweet, custardy, umami, sulfur taste with pungent, sulfurous, fruity, sweet, onion-like aromas.
- Taste
- Sweet, Custardy, Umami, Sulfur
- Texture
- Creamy, Soft, Fibrous
- Aroma
- Pungent, Sulfurous, Fruity, Sweet, Onion-like
- Acidity
- Low
Technical Metrics
Nutrition Facts
Per 1 cup (243g)Chef’s Secret
Handle durian in a well-ventilated area. Its strong aroma, while challenging for some, is key to its complex flavor profile.
Durian Substitutes & Ratios
The best substitute for Durian is Jackfruit, used at a 1:1 ratio. Similar tropical sweetness and fibrous texture, but much milder aroma.
| Substitute | Ratio | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Jackfruit Best | 1:1 | Similar tropical sweetness and fibrous texture, but much milder aroma. |
| Custard Apple (Cherimoya) | 1:1 | Offers a creamy, sweet tropical flavor and texture, but no strong aroma. |
| Mamey Sapote | 1:1 | Rich, creamy, sweet tropical fruit with a unique flavor, less pungent. |
How to Choose & Store Durian
Purchase whole with intact spikes; ripeness judged by smell and slight give to spikes.
What Pairs Well With Durian?
- Sticky rice
- coconut milk
- coffee
- ice cream
- deep-fried snacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Durian taste like?
Sweet, Custardy, Umami, Sulfur Pungent, Sulfurous, Fruity, Sweet, Onion-like
What is a good substitute for Durian?
The best substitute is Jackfruit (1:1). Similar tropical sweetness and fibrous texture, but much milder aroma.
How do you choose and store Durian?
Purchase whole with intact spikes; ripeness judged by smell and slight give to spikes.