Durian: disgusting smell and great taste in one fruit. Durian Fruit - "The stinky king of fruits is the durian

Durian is one of the most unusual healthy tropical fruits in the world. Its homeland is India, Indonesia, Thailand. Grown in Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Laos, India, Cambodia. The best fruits are grown near Bangkok. The benefits and harms of durian have not been fully studied.

What does durian look like and where does it grow?

The name comes from Malay words resulting in the phrase “thorny fruit”. Indeed, durian is a large, oblong ball of yellow or greenish color. The weight is up to eight kilograms, the diameter is up to thirty centimeters, and is covered with long pyramidal spines. In cross section, durian looks like big nut, divided into hemispheres. It consists of five chambers, with white veins, each of which contains yellow or yellow-red pulp.

Nine of the thirty-four known species are allowed for consumption. Durian is beneficial, but in some cases can cause harm to the body, so you need to carefully study the composition and properties.

Taste and smell of durian

This healthy fruit leaves no one indifferent. Taste qualities so ambiguous that everyone associates them with something individual. Most people agree that durian tastes like... delicate cream from milk and eggs. For many, it is a favorite fruit; others cannot be in the same room with it.

This is due to a specific smell. Despite all the benefits, many people don’t dare try it because of the unpleasant aroma.

This property is explained by the chemical reaction of sulfuric acid and oxygen during cutting. The smell does not come immediately; it takes several minutes for the elements to interact. They compare the odor emitted to sewerage or stale socks.

Important! In countries where the healthy fruit is common, it is prohibited to take it with you on a plane or to a hotel, since unpleasant aroma does not erode for a long time and is not masked by air fresheners.

At the same time, this unpleasant fact does not cause any harm to the human body. Rather, on the contrary, a strong smell indicates maturity and the focus of benefit.

For the same reason, durian is exported dried or canned.

Chemical composition and calorie content of durian

It has a huge number of beneficial properties for humans. The calorie content is high, about 147 kcal per 100 g.

water – about 60 g;
proteins – 1.5 g;
fats – about 5 g;
carbohydrates – about 23 g;
fiber – about 4 g;
ash – 1 g.

It also contains useful micro- and macroelements:

potassium;
calcium;
magnesium;
phosphorus;
sodium;
iron;
manganese;
zinc;
copper.

Durian is a treasure trove useful vitamins: A (beta-carotene), B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), niacin, B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B9 (folic acid), C (ascorbic acid).

The composition contains no elements that are harmful to the body. The benefits are enormous for many organs and systems.

What are the benefits of durian?

The benefits of durian for women and men are beyond doubt; it has unique properties, is able to have a beneficial multifaceted effect on the body.

Is the only one edible fruit containing organic sulfur. This useful element, which is part of the cells of human hair, skin, nails, as well as nervous, bone and cartilage tissues of organs, proteins and some hormones. As a component of insulin, sulfur ensures blood sugar balance, which is beneficial for patients diabetes mellitus. It also fights aging, promotes the removal of toxins, and has natural anthelmintic and antiviral properties.

Thanks to high content minerals, has cardiovascular, nervous, immune systems. In addition, it has bactericidal properties.

Thanks to its high calorie and fiber content, it is very nutritious. It quickly saturates the body, and the feeling of hunger subsides for a long time.

It does not contain cholesterol, so it can be consumed without fear by those who adhere to a healthy lifestyle.

Durian has particular benefits for women. Due to the content of the hormone estrogen, it increases the chances of getting pregnant and bearing a healthy child.

Benefits of durian for men

In addition to the general beneficial properties for women and men, the latter provides invaluable assistance in restoring and maintaining sexual function. It is an excellent aphrodisiac. Thanks to the hormone estrogen, it restores and increases potency, improves sperm quality and sperm activity.

Can pregnant women eat durian?

Extremely beneficial, but may be harmful to pregnant and breastfeeding women, so they should use it with caution.

There is no categorical prohibition. A woman carrying a child can assess her condition and the opportunity to try the fruit herself. The beneficial properties will be beneficial for her and the baby. But if a pregnant woman suffers from edema and high blood pressure, can cause harm and make problems worse.

How to properly eat and clean durian

Despite the variety of forms (dried, jam), fresh raw fruit has the greatest beneficial properties. Only fully ripened fruit should be consumed immediately after opening. To do this, you need to cut the durian into several parts; the pulp is easy to extract. You can do this with your hands or a spoon, as it will be difficult to get rid of the smell. The indigenous people of Thailand eat with salted water. More detailed instructions for cleaning durian can be found in the video:

Why durian is dangerous

Although it has many beneficial properties, in some cases it can cause serious harm to health. Therefore, there are a number of contraindications for use:

individual intolerance to components can lead to allergic reactions;
It is forbidden to eat people suffering from hypertension, as it increases blood pressure;
period of pregnancy and lactation;
The simultaneous consumption of durian and alcohol is prohibited and extremely dangerous.

Durian and alcohol

Attention! It is strictly forbidden to combine the consumption of alcohol and durian, as this may cause great harm to the human body.

Durian in cooking

Useful properties, as well as its delicate taste ensured consistent use in a variety of recipes.

Cocktails, ice cream and jam are made from it.
Also used to prepare a specific dessert, popular in Thailand. It consists of glutinous rice that is doused in coconut syrup and juice. sugar cane. Durian pieces are added to it.
We also love durian dodol. This pie is a frozen baked mass of durian pulp, glutinous rice, sugar and coconut milk.
The seeds are used as a seasoning.
In Indonesia, the pulp is used to make a sauce with mint, which is served with rice.
Used in fried as a side dish for meat.

What is the difference between jackfruit and durian?

Jackfruit is no less popular in Thailand than durian. This is also an extremely healthy fruit, having specific smell and a whole spectrum useful substances and elements. But the difference between them is great.

These are the fruits of completely different trees. Jackfruit grows on breadfruit, the fruits can be enormous in size, weighing up to thirty kilograms. As it grows, it is covered with green spines; as it matures, these spines become less pronounced. Ripe jackfruit is gray-brown in color. Its seeds are eaten; they contain milky juice, which is very difficult to wash off skin and clothes.

By appearance are also different. While durian pulp consists of two large oblong halves, jackfruit seeds are small and randomly located inside the fruit.

How to choose durian

Ripe fruits are the most useful. To select the maximum ripe fruit, you need to know what characteristics it should have:

it should be soft to the touch, but also elastic at the same time; bends in one direction or the other indicate immaturity or overripeness;
the spines must be mobile, otherwise it indicates immaturity;
when tapping, a dull sound should be heard;
Not pleasant smell should not be distinct;
color may be green or yellow;
the fruit should not be peeled, as it has a short shelf life;
there should be no stains or damage on the surface.

How to store durian at home

Peeled durian cannot be stored, it must be consumed immediately, otherwise everything will be lost beneficial properties. And in an uncleaned form it can last for two days at room temperature, in the refrigerator - up to five days.

To extend the shelf life of durian, it is made into a kind of dried fruit. But for this purpose, the pulp is not simply dried, but pastille is made - this method allows you to preserve the benefits and taste.

Conclusion

The benefits and harms of durian are incomparable. Due to the content of a large number of useful substances and elements, durian has a beneficial effect on all systems of the human body. It will not cause any harm if you use it wisely, follow all the rules, and abstain from alcohol.

For the Russian ear, the word “durian” sounds very unusual, at the same time evoking Oscar Wilde’s immortal novel and drawing an image of a mysterious fruit with “bad” properties. However, everything is much simpler - the name of the tropical fruit is translated as “prickly” and “thorn” due to its original appearance. Those who have tried durian at least once assure that this dessert cannot be compared with anything else, and it is impossible to forget it. amazing taste It's simply impossible.

Durian: how to find out

Durian - a traditional delicacy Southeast Asia, it is grown in Malaysia, India, the Kingdom of Thailand, etc., small “plantations” can be found in South and Latin America. There are about 30 varieties in the world, about 9 of which are edible, and only 3-4 are the most popular.

If you want to know what a durian looks like, the photo will show a prickly ball up to 20 cm in size, similar to. The skin of the fruit is very thick, covered with dense thorns of a greenish-brown hue, which protect the delicate pulp until full ripening. Under the skin there are several slices of yellowish-cream filling; the consistency of durian resembles melted butter or cream cheese.

Is the smell banned?

Unlike many other tropical delicacies, durian fruit is practically not exported; it is a domestic product. Russian tourists can enjoy fresh durian only directly in Thailand, Malaysia, Myanmar and other Asian countries, where the popularity of the southern chestnut is simply off the charts. Thus, in the Kingdom of Thailand it is rightfully called the king of local fruits, believing that the smell of durian evokes hellish visions, and the taste gives the pleasures of heaven.

The durian smell has long been the talk of the town: this strange aroma has received so many definitions! What does durian smell like and what can it be compared to? Someone claims that ripe fruit smells like rotten eggs, some call it a mixture of rotten fish and city sewage, and on forums you can find such spectacular descriptions as “a combination fried onions and turpentine."

Abroad, the attitude towards the smell of durian is clear: you cannot enter public places (shops, transport, banks, some hotels, etc.) with this fruit, and special prohibition signs are posted for tourists and forgetful citizens. It is prohibited by law to export the king of fruits from Thailand: even unripe durians, wrapped in several layers of cellophane, can practically poison the entire plane with their disgusting smell.

Taste of buttercream and sweet onion

But if the smell of durian causes almost horror among local residents and Russian tourists, then the taste gives a completely different sensation.

Experts assure that not everyone is able to taste the Asian chestnut on the first try. But after the second or third time, no one remains indifferent to durian - they either instantly become hooked on this fruit or hate it.

Exotic durian - what does this fruit taste like and what do experienced tourists say about it? One of the main characteristics of the fruit is this: no two durian fruits have the same taste and smell. The shade of taste depends on many conditions: country, variety, storage conditions and ripeness. The pulp most often tastes like butter cream with notes of vanilla, warm pastries, and sometimes sweet fried onions or even a delicious salad with mayonnaise. One thing is invariable, forum members assure, it’s incredibly delicious!

Durian is such an interesting and specific fruit that in some countries they hold durian festivals...

What are the benefits of durian?

The uniqueness of durian is not limited to its original flavor and aromatic properties; like many fruits, it can be used in medicinal purposes. So what are the health benefits of durian?

This fragrant fruit is a champion in the content of iron, potassium and copper, as well as other B vitamins.

Durian strengthens the heart and helps with anemia, has a healing effect on the endocrine system, and thanks to dietary fiber, regulates intestinal function. The king of Thai fruits is an excellent antidepressant, and not only due to its luxurious taste. Tryptophan in the pulp quickly turns into serotonin, allowing you to cope with depressed mood and irritability.

If on a romantic trip you decide to buy durian at the market, both you and your significant other will appreciate the beneficial properties of the fruit. Asian chestnut has a beneficial effect on the female hormonal system, enhances reproductive function, and also enhances male potency. The full power of the fruit's effect on sexual function can be assessed by a frivolous Asian proverb: “When durians fall down, sarongs fly up.”

Durian is also a very nutritious product and quite (for a fruit!) high in calories: about 150 kcal per 100 grams of pulp. Therefore, a couple of slices of durian are a healthy and hearty snack during a hot holiday.

Contraindications

To ensure that durian brings you bright and only positive emotions during your trip, follow a few rules:

It is strictly forbidden to combine the king of fruits with alcohol: this can cause a powerful surge in blood pressure and even a heart attack. And in general, you shouldn’t drink alcohol!
Hypertensive patients should also not take risks and get carried away with juicy fruits.
You should also not try durian during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
For those who, even on vacation, watch their weight and follow a diet, you need to be careful: if you overdo it with durian, there is a risk of gaining 1-2 extra kg.
Well, don’t try to bring durian into a hotel or plane. What if your forgetfulness or sense of humor is not appreciated?

How to properly store and eat?

There is only one storage rule for durian, but it is important - this fruit is eaten only fresh and very quickly.

They claim that it can be stored at home for up to 3-5 days, wrapped in several layers of film, but the pleasure you will get is dubious - during these days the room and things will become so saturated with the smell that it will be almost impossible to get rid of the aroma of durian. It is also not recommended to freeze it - after defrosting delicious fruit loses most of its properties.

Eating durian in fresh, or with your hands, removing the skin and breaking off slices, or with a spoon. It takes a little longer to scrape out the delicate pulp with a spoon, but then you'll save a lot of time by not trying to scrub the questionable fruity smell off your hands.

Durian slices are added to exotic cocktails, desserts and ice cream, chips, sweets and jam are made from it, which can become an excellent souvenir - they are allowed to be exported from the country in any quantity.

Choosing the most delicious durian

To choose the ripest and best fruit To avoid being disappointed in the Thais' favorite fruit, you need to remember a few tricks.

If possible, buy durian only in markets. It is there that the fruits are the ripest and juiciest.
Rate external signs fruit: if you tap the peel, a dull sound should come out, like ripe watermelon. When pressed, the skin of a ripe durian gives in slightly to pressure, the green skin remains hard, while the skin of an overripe durian is too soft. The spikes should move slightly to the side and be flexible.
If you are going to eat your fruit calmly at home or on the beach, buy only whole fruits; if you want to enjoy them right away, ask them to cut them and package them. Ripeness can also be determined by the pulp; the requirements for it are the same as for the peel.
Focus on the smell - a ripe, but not overripe durian has a calm, not sharp smell. When there is no aroma at all, the fruit is not ripe, and if on the way to the counter you feel sick from the aroma, there is a risk that the fruit has been overstayed.

Duriant fruit, a photo of which you can see on our website, belongs to the category of exotic. Many women don’t even imagine 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 traditional delicacy. The plant also grows on small, artificially created plantations in South and Latin America. It must be said that at the moment there are about 30 varieties, but only the fruits of nine plant varieties can be eaten. Only 3–4 varieties are particularly popular.

Want to know what 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, on its surface there is large number greenish-brown spines. This is necessary so that the fruit develops smoothly until full ripening.

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

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

Advice! It must be said 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 occurs in early spring and lasts about six months.

Ugh, what an abomination!

This product, despite a 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 is simply off the charts. Residents of Thailand, for example, compare durian with a certain deity that can cause hellish hallucinations when inhaling its smell and heavenly pleasure from the sensation of taste.

The smell of durian is very different from other fresh fruits. Exists huge amount comparisons of this smell. Some of those who happened to smell the amber emanating from it characterize it as the stench that they emit rotten eggs. In the Middle Ages, when the first Englishmen arrived in India, books describing their travels compared the smell of durian to the process of eating blue cheese and spoiled fried onions over an open sewer manhole. Rotten fish, garlic, turpentine are just some of the things that 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 regarding this product. A person who buys durian at 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 you understand why the export of this amazingly tasty and healthy fruit prohibited? Even one unripe durian fruit, wrapped in a large amount of paper, can permeate absolutely all the compartments of an airplane with its disgusting smell in a matter of minutes.

When the taste is on the verge of heavenly pleasure

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

It must be said that not everyone manages to taste the taste of durian the first time. But after several attempts, even experienced people cannot be dissuaded from the sophistication and sophistication of the sensations obtained while eating the fruit. Although there are also 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 this: no two durian fruits have the same taste and smell. The shade of taste may depend on storage conditions, place of growth, variety and stage of ripening. Most often, the fruit is characterized by the presence of notes of vanilla, creamy ice cream, and warm pastries. In some cases, durian is compared to the taste of fried onions or delicious salad with mayonnaise.

Beneficial 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 figure out why durian is useful.

Due to its high iron content, durian can be used for anemia treatment. His daily use has a beneficial effect on the condition endocrine system, improves heart function. Specific structure of dietary fiber helps improve bowel function, minimize the risk of constipation. Plus 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 is quickly converted into serotonin, which promotes the production of the “happiness hormone” that is so important for us. Thanks to its sufficient quantity, a person becomes less irritated, overall well-being improves, and a depressive outlook on life disappears.

Dear ladies, if you are traveling with your significant other, 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 even came up with a saying for this occasion: “When the durian falls down, the sarongs fly up.”

To all the above advantages of the fruit, we can add that it is different high calorie content and nutritional value. There are 150 kcal per hundred grams of product! Do you want to maintain the beauty of your figure while on vacation? Eat a few slices of durian on an empty stomach and you will be charged with energy and positivity for the whole day. In the heat it is very difficult to force yourself to eat a piece of meat, but this fruit is... great way have a good meal.

There are also contraindications

When consuming 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! Treat yourself to this product with caution, otherwise you will have to take medications from your medicine cabinet to stabilize your blood pressure.
You should not try this fruit during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Those who are trying to watch their figure should not overuse durian and limit its consumption to a few slices per day. With its help it is easy to gain a couple of extra pounds.
Do not try to bring the fruit into a hotel or plane. It will be 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 eaten only fresh. Some experts say that durian can be stored at home for 3-5 days. This opinion is fundamentally wrong, because during this time the entire apartment and things will become so saturated with a fetid “aroma” that you are unlikely to be able to get rid of it in a short time. Rest assured, the owner of the rental property 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 out the pulp with a spoon. In favor of using the latter cutlery there is one important argument: from the smell of this exotic fruit It's very difficult to get rid of on your hands.

Using durian slices you can create exotic cocktails, ice cream and other incredible delicious desserts. If you want your relatives and close friends to try durian, buy them candies filled with this exotic fruit as a gift.

How to choose the best of the best?

"Fruit rabbit" 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 should move back slightly. The peel should not be very dense, but not soft either. You can buy the whole fruit at the market or ask the merchant to cut it and package it. If the fruit does not smell of anything, do not buy it, the durian has not yet ripened. A too nauseating smell, on the contrary, indicates that the fruit has been sitting on the counter.

What do women say?

Not all of us are resistant to unpleasant odor, so before purchasing it is better to read the reviews of 6-7 women about the durian fruit, the photo of which you have already seen while reading our article. We have carefully scoured the forums and have identified several opinions for you to review:

Olga, 32 years old: I have long wanted to try durian, but never got around to it. Having traveled to Vietnam and bought this fruit at one of the markets, I understood why the locals consider it very tasty. The feeling is indescribable!

Ekaterina, 58 years old: I must say, durian is an excellent aphrodisiac. He 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 my vacation, I ate it for several weeks in a row, and the result was three extra pounds.

Valentina, 42 years old: During a visit to Thailand, I became addicted to durian and did not regret it. Thanks to the presence of organic sulfur in its composition, my hair and nails became stronger. Silky hair delights with its natural shine and beauty, and your nails no longer peel.

Tatyana, 25 years old: Durian should only be purchased at markets, and it is advisable to ask the merchant to cut the fruit in your presence. This will protect you from buying unripe fruit and help you enjoy durian without unpleasant odor. If you follow all the rules, this fruit can please you unique taste and pleasant consistency.

So, as you have already understood, durian is very healthy and delicious product. It contains a large amount of iron, which helps to cope with such a serious disease as anemia. If you haven’t tried it yet, don’t expect to be able to buy the fruit in your nearest supermarket. The strong foul “aroma” prevents durian from being imported into other countries.

In the ranking of the most unusual fruits in the world, the first place is probably taken by exotic fruit durian This fruit has very unusual qualities, some of which still remain a mystery to scientists.

Durian (lat. Durio) is a genus of plants in the Malvaceae family, which includes about 30 species. The trees are large, weakly branched, evergreen, with supporting roots and simple leaves. The flowers are large, white or red, develop on trunks (caulifloria) or large branches (ramifloria), open in the evening and are pollinated by bats and bees.

Durian has a very large fruit, up to 30 cm in size and up to 8 kg in weight, on top it is covered with pyramidal spines, which explains its name from the Malay word “duri” - thorn. Consists of 5 chambers separated by white veins, each of which contains delicate yellow or yellowish-red pulp.

Durian is native to Southeast Asia, where it is still most popular. Currently, this fruit is grown in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, India, Sri Lanka and the Philippines, as well as in several countries in Central Africa and Brazil.

100 g of durian contains:

Water - 65 g
Proteins - 1.5 g
Fat - 5.3 g
Carbohydrates - 23.3 g
Dietary fiber(fiber) - 3.8 g
Ash - 1.1 g

Vitamins in durian:

Vitamin A (beta-carotene) - 23 mcg
Vitamin B1 (thiamine) - 0.374 mg
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) - 0.2 mg
Niacin (vitamin B3 or vitamin PP) - 1.074 mg
Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) - 0.23 mg
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) - 0.316 mg
Folic acid(vitamin B9) - 36 mcg
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) - 19.7 mg

Macronutrients in durian:

Potassium - 436 mg
Calcium - 6 mg
Sodium - 2 mg
Magnesium - 30 mg
Phosphorus - 39 mg

Microelements in durian:

Iron - 0.43 mg
Manganese - 325 mcg
Copper - 207 mcg
Zinc - 0.28 mg

Calorie content of durian - 100 g of durian fruit contains on average about 147 kcal.

But as for the taste and smell of durian, that’s a different matter. Completely contradictory reviews can be heard about unusual taste this fruit. The fruit of a very delicate consistency has at the same time: a nutty-cheese taste, a taste custard, reminiscent of a combination of banana, mango, pineapple, overripe papaya and vanilla, the taste of a mixture of ice cream, onion, spices and banana, strawberry with dried persimmons. There are a lot of opinions about the taste, we recommend you try it and form your own.

As for the smell of durian, there is only one opinion - it is disgusting and unbearable! It is forbidden to bring it into hotels, you cannot board an airplane or carry it on a bus; it is most often exported in dried or canned form. The reason for this is the absolutely terrible smell of this unique fruit, which has no analogues in the world.

The ripe fruit has a very corrosive, sweetish-putrid odor, reminiscent of the smell of garlic, rotten onions, rotten fish and sewage, storing durian in indoors simply out of the question.

Durian fruits, despite the disgusting smell, are considered the most valuable fruit in Southeast Asia. The best characteristic Locals give durian fruits: “Hell is outside, heaven is inside.”

The raw pulp of ripe durian fruit is considered a delicacy. Durian is consumed both raw and used to make jam, ice cream and sweets. Durian seeds are used in culinary purposes and as a seasoning. In Indonesia, durian pulp is used to make a mint sauce that is eaten with rice. Durian fruits are exported as canned food to the Middle East and Europe. In Thailand they cook durian and pumpkin thick paste, which is stored for a long time and is used as a spice. On the island of Java, durian is usually consumed as an additive to ice cream, first cut into thin slices and dipped in sugar. Durian is fried in coconut oil with spices and served as a side dish for meat or as an independent dish.

IN household The durian tree has also found use. Dried and cured durian bark is used as fuel when smoking fish, giving the fish a strong and pleasant smell. The bark ash is used to bleach silk. The wood of the tree has a rough surface, soft structure, white and a light reddish-brown core. It is used in small quantities in Southeast Asia for the masts of small ships and in the construction of village houses.

The uniqueness of the fruit lies in its qualities that can provide amazing properties on the body. Durian is the only edible fruit that contains organic sulfur. Sulfur is a vital macronutrient, it is part of a number of amino acids and enzymes, is an indispensable component of cells, organ tissues, nervous, bone and cartilage tissue, hair, skin and nails of humans, and also participates in many biochemical reactions occurring in the body. Biologically active sulfur is easily absorbed and is part of proteins and some hormones such as insulin in the body, thereby ensuring blood sugar balance. Sulfur is an essential part of important antioxidant molecules that fight aging in the body. It is also involved in the process of removing toxins and many biochemical reactions in the cell.

Therapeutic baths with durian leaves are prescribed for bile spills, a decoction of the leaves and fruits is applied to inflamed skin and drunk as an antipyretic, and the pulp is used as an anthelmintic. The ash of the burnt bark is used after childbirth. Durian leaves contain hydroxytryptamine and mustard oil.

Durian is a source of fiber, vitamins B and C, and antioxidants.

Durian also has a strong bactericidal effect (due to the substance indole it contains), helps remove toxins from the body, and also enhances sexual function and increases the likelihood of becoming pregnant (due to the estrogens it contains).

When consumed in sufficient quantities, durian can cleanse your lungs and airways. For durian lovers, there is even toothpaste with durian additives.

Durian is called a “hot” fruit; when consumed, the temperature in the stomach increases and, according to residents of Southeast Asia, you don’t need a blanket while sleeping.

Attention, do not abuse durian, it is not only extremely useful, but also extremely dangerous. Be careful not to consume large amounts of the fruit at one time, and also never drink alcoholic beverages for at least an hour after eating durian.

Consumption of durian is contraindicated in case of hypertension, pregnancy, breastfeeding, as well as in case of individual intolerance.

There are several points, if observed, that durian tasting can be successful. Durian should be cut before your eyes; under no circumstances try it already cut and sold in plastic packaging. The fruit must reach a certain stage of ripening; if you tap it with a special stick, the sound should be dull. You should eat durian immediately after opening and preferably in the fresh air.

As you know, the most delicious and nutritious durian fruit grows in Thailand; here durian is called the “king of fruits.” It is the most expensive fruit in the country's markets. But, due to its aroma, it is rarely exported fresh, most often dried or canned. Here it is considered the most delicious fruit in the world, they know its multifunctional uses and even organize a holiday in its honor. There are about 200 types of this fruit in Thailand. The harvest season is from May to August. At this time, trade counters are overflowing with this amazing fruit.

Every year in the province of Chanthaburi, which is called the “garden province” and is famous for its fruit plantations, a fair dedicated to durian is held.

28.10.18

Durian resembles the monster from Loch Ness - everyone has heard of it, but few have seen it. And in appearance it looks like a prickly and thorny monster. The name corresponds - “duri” means “thorn”. People make up legends about its heavenly taste and disgusting smell.

In our material we will tell you all about the benefits and harms of durian, discuss the beneficial properties of the fruit for the body of men, women and children, and also talk about contraindications for consumption unusual product.

In the photo - durian fruit:

Let's give an example of just a few amazing facts about this fruit:

Durian is prohibited from being brought into public places or transport.
In the homeland of the fruit - in the cities of Southeast Asia - special buffets are organized on the streets, intended exclusively for serving durian.
The flowers of this exotic fruit are pollinated by mammals - bats.
Only 9 subspecies of the plant are consumed, and there are about 30 in total.
Indole, an aromatic volatile substance, gives the fruit not only the hellish stench of biological decay, but also bactericidal qualities.
Taste evokes different associations. Many people call it creamy and cheesy, to some it resembles ice cream with whipped cream and banana, while others even compare durian to fried potatoes and dough for pies.
In Thailand, along the roads there are monuments to the amazing creation of nature.

How to choose

If you flew to Thailand or Malaysia from April to September, consider that your trip was a success - you are in durian season. At this time he has the best taste properties, the cheapest.

There are several distinctive features by which you can choose the best fruits:

Composition, calorie content, beneficial properties

Energy value The product reaches 147 kcal per 100 g due to the following nutrients:

proteins - 1.5 g;
fats - 5.3 g;
carbohydrates - 23.3 g.

The pulp of the fruit contains a lot of water (65%) and fiber (3.8%).

The mineral composition is quite rich, includes compounds of potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, copper, iron.

A characteristic feature is the presence of organic sulfur. Its volatile compounds, together with indole, create a renowned aromatic bouquet.

Biologically active substances of the fruit are B vitamins, ascorbic acid, vitamin A.

What is useful and harmful

Thais and Malaysians eat durian all their lives.

Here are their observations about the influence of this fruit on the functions of the human body:

But consumption of any exotic product must be dosed. His useful qualities have a positive effect only on local residents who have been eating this fruit since childhood.

But the result can be unpredictable for a tourist, even to the point of individual intolerance.

First of all, it is worth remembering these rules:

You should eat durian in the morning, no more than 200 g at a time.
No alcohol in combination with durian! Yes, many people boast that they washed this fruit down with alcoholic drinks. But not everyone's experience was successful.
Southern exotics are definitely contraindicated for allergy sufferers: foreign substances in the composition can cause an unexpected allergic reaction.
The tonic properties of durian can play a bad joke on people with hypertension.
Children under 5 years of age and pregnant and lactating women should consume the fruit with caution - primarily due to unexpected manifestations of allergies.
Another unpleasant consequence of eating is belching with a repulsive odor.

Use in cooking

A European traveling in Southeast Asia can consider himself very lucky if he finds a good ripe durian on sale at the market that he likes the taste.

And for local peoples, eating durian is the most common thing, although they also consider it festive dish undoubtedly respected. It is even called the king among fruits.

In the summer season, when the plantations begin to bear fruit at the same time, it is not possible to sell everything to tourists, then the fruits are processed.

The Thais and Malays have accumulated a wealth of experience using the thorny king in cooking:

Durian is included in many recipes confectionery: sweets, ice cream, cocktails.
The fruits of the plant are used to make jam or jam and dry them, like chips and dried fruits. In this form you can keep it for a long time and even bring it home from a trip.
Quite unexpectedly, this fruit (mostly unripe) is even fried. It turns out something similar to fried potatoes.
The seeds are dried, ground and added to vegetable and meat dishes.
Fresh pulp is added to main courses and soups.
How fresh vegetable, consume the young shoots of the plant.
Local residents bake tubes and pies filled with durian.
The peel and bark of the tree are used to smoke fish.

A decoction of tree roots with other herbal ingredients for diseases respiratory tract used as an anti-inflammatory and antipyretic agent. This old recipe, recorded almost 100 years ago.
Another ancient remedy is ash obtained from the prickly peel of the fruit. Women who have recently given birth drink it.
For jaundice, baths with the leaves of the plant are prescribed.
The seeds contain tannins and have antidiarrheal properties.
Decoction of leaves and fruits - remedy against inflammation and swelling of external tissues.
For raw foodists, pulp is good source fats and proteins.
The roots and leaves of the plant are used to treat feverish conditions.

The fats and vitamins in the composition allow the fruit pulp to be used in cosmetology. It is mainly used as a component of cosmetic masks for dry facial skin and dry hair.

You must first make sure that the fruit does not cause allergies when used externally.

The simplest nourishing and moisturizing mask for dry skin is to apply homogeneous mass fruit on the face, wait 20 minutes, rinse.
A piece of the fruit can simply be rubbed on dry facial skin in the morning.
For oily skin make a mask with cleansing qualities. To do this, the pulp is mixed with citrus juice and oatmeal. 20 minutes after applying the mask to the hair, rinse off with water.

The following composition is useful for dry hair: burdock oil and grated durian pulp in a 2:1 ratio. Apply to hair, rinse with shampoo after 20 minutes.

A few more interesting facts about durian fruit - in this video:

Russians have different opinions about durian. Sometimes it seems that people are practicing eloquence, issuing flowery descriptions and unexpected epithets.

No one regretted the new experience, although not everyone liked the Thai king of fruits. But he is definitely worthy of attention and respect. Durian is a miracle, not a monster!