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| A Guide to the Diverse Durian Varieties of Singapore |
The durian is known as the "king of fruits" in Southeast Asia, beloved for its unique taste and infamous odor. There are hundreds of durian cultivars, but only some are readily available in Singapore. Here's an overview of the major durian types you can find in Singapore and how to tell them apart.
Bitter Durians
Bitter durians have a potent, pungent flavor and creamy, bitter-sweet flesh. Their taste and smell is very intense. They tend to be more expensive than sweet durians. Here are some popular bitter durian varieties in Singapore:
Mao Shan Wang
Mao Shan Wang, which means "Cat Mountain King" in Chinese, is considered the king of all durians. Its flesh is bright yellow, thick and creamy with a bittersweet flavor and an intense smell. The thorns are relatively small. Mao Shan Wang originates from Raub, Pahang in Malaysia.
D24
D24 has a round shape with short, sharp thorns. Its flesh is deep yellow with a rich, bittersweet flavor and a powerful odor. It has a moist, smooth texture. D24 was created by durian specialists in Thailand.
Golden Phoenix
This large durian has a classic oblong shape with medium-sized thorns. Its creamy flesh is bright orange-yellow with a rich, complex bittersweet taste. Golden Phoenix is a popular hybrid bred in Malaysia.
XO
XO is instantly recognizable by its huge size and fiery orange flesh. It has a characteristic bitter-sweet flavor that intensifies as you eat more. The flesh is thick and firm. XO originated from Chanthaburi, Thailand.
Red Prawn
Red Prawn has a squat shape with bright red spikes. Its flesh is deep orange-red in color with a creamy, rich texture and complex bitter-sweet taste. It has hints of alcohol and chocolate flavors. Red Prawn was created in Malaysia.
Sweet Durians
Sweet durians have a milder, fruity sweetness compared to bitter durians. They are easier on the wallet too. Here are some common sweet durian varieties found in Singapore:
Black Pearl
Black Pearl is small and round with short thorns. Its flesh is bright yellow with a very sweet, creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. It has a mild creamy fragrance. Black Pearl originated in Penang, Malaysia.
Green Bamboo
Green Bamboo has a rounded shape with bright green spikes. Its flesh is creamy yellow with a mildly sweet taste and light fruity aroma. It has a soft, watery texture. Green Bamboo hails from Balik Pulau, Malaysia.
Black Thorn
Black Thorn gets its name from its dark brown or black thorns. Its flesh is bright yellow with a bittersweet undertone balanced by a fruity sweetness. It has a pleasant mild smell. Black Thorn is a popular Thai cultivar.
Black Gold
Black Gold is a medium-sized durian with short, black thorns. Its flesh is deep yellow with a very sweet taste reminiscent of honey. It has a soft, smooth texture and subtle fragrance. Black Gold was created in Malaysia.
D17
D17 is a small round durian with short spikes. Its bright yellow flesh is very sweet with a light fruity aroma. The texture is soft and creamy. D17 originates from Uttaradit, Thailand.
So in summary, bitter durians like Mao Shan Wang and D24 have an intense flavor and smell, while sweet ones like Black Pearl and Green Bamboo are milder and fruitier. Try the different varieties to discover your personal favorites! Let their unique characteristics and flavors transport you on a tropical durian journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to eat durians in Singapore?
The durian season in Singapore typically runs from June to August, which is the best time to indulge in fresh durians. Many stalls and shops sell durians year-round, but the peak season offers the best flavor and availability.
Where can I buy durians in Singapore?
Popular places to purchase durians include street vendors in Geylang Serai and Katong, wet markets like Ghim Moh and Chinatown, major supermarkets, and specialty durian shops. There are also online delivery services specializing in durians.
How do I choose a good durian?
Pick durians with intact stems and fresh green leaves. Shake the fruit gently to feel the seed moving inside. The spikes should be firm and not drooping. Avoid cracked or leaking durians. Sniff the aroma through the stem to check for freshness.
What is the most expensive durian in Singapore?
The Mao Shan Wang durian tends to be the most expensive, costing $12-20 per kg on average. Red Prawn, Golden Phoenix and other premium varieties can also cost over $10 per kg. Prices fluctuate depending on availability and demand.
Is it legal to eat durians in public places in Singapore?
Due to their strong odor, eating durians is prohibited on public transport, in hotels, shopping malls, parks and other public areas in Singapore. You can enjoy durians at home or at designated durian stalls instead. Fines may apply for violations.
What drinks go well with durians?
The creaminess of durians goes well with coconut water, soy bean milk, coffee and tea. Durian pulp shakes with milk are a popular combo too. Some also enjoy durians with champagne or XO brandy.
Can I bring durians overseas from Singapore?
Many airlines and countries ban the import of whole durians due to their scent and thorns. Check import regulations before attempting to bring durians overseas through air travel or shipping.
Are durians high in calories?
A 100g serving of durian contains about 147 calories. While high in natural sugars, durians contain good amounts of fiber, vitamin C, B vitamins, manganese and tryptophan. Enjoy durians in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
What is the "Musang King" durian?
Musang King is the English name for Mao Shan Wang durians from Malaysia. Musang means civet cat in Malay, referring to the durian's intense bittersweet flavor.
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