1. Musang King (Mao Shan Wang)
Origin: Malaysia
Flavor and Texture: Musang King is arguably the most famous durian variety, known for its bright yellow flesh and bittersweet flavor. The flesh is creamy and smooth, with a rich, buttery texture. It has a complex taste profile that combines sweet and bitter notes, making it a favorite among durian enthusiasts.
Distinctive Features: This variety is easily recognizable by its distinct star shape at the base of the fruit and its relatively smaller seeds compared to other durians.
2. D24 (Sultan)
Origin: Malaysia
Flavor and Texture: D24 durians are known for their consistent quality and well-balanced taste. The flesh is pale yellow and offers a creamy texture with a mix of sweet and slightly bitter flavors. It is less intense than Musang King, making it a good choice for those new to durians.
Distinctive Features: D24 is often chosen for its reliability in taste and texture, making it a staple in many durian buffets and markets.
3. Black Thorn (Ochee)
Origin: Malaysia
Flavor and Texture: Black Thorn is celebrated for its deep orange flesh and intensely sweet, caramel-like flavor. The texture is exceptionally creamy, almost like a thick custard. It is a relatively rare variety, often fetching high prices due to its limited availability and high demand.
Distinctive Features: The name "Black Thorn" comes from the dark, thorny stem of the fruit. The flesh's vibrant color and small seeds make it a sought-after delicacy.
4. Red Prawn (Hong Xia)
Origin: Malaysia
Flavor and Texture: Red Prawn durians have a reddish hue to their flesh, which is sweet and creamy. The flavor is milder compared to Musang King and Black Thorn, with a subtle hint of bitterness that balances the sweetness. The texture is smooth and soft, almost melting in the mouth.
Distinctive Features: The reddish flesh and sweet taste make Red Prawn a unique variety. It is especially popular in Penang, Malaysia.
5. Golden Phoenix (Jin Feng)
Origin: Malaysia
Flavor and Texture: Golden Phoenix durians have pale, almost white flesh that is exceptionally soft and creamy. The flavor is delicate, with a mild sweetness and slight bitterness. It is less pungent than other varieties, making it a good introduction to durians for beginners.
Distinctive Features: The light-colored flesh and mild aroma set Golden Phoenix apart. Its subtle taste is often preferred by those who find other durian varieties too overwhelming.
6. XO
Origin: Malaysia
Flavor and Texture: Named after the famous liquor, XO durians are known for their alcoholic aftertaste. The flesh is pale and has a slightly fibrous texture. The flavor is complex, combining sweet, bitter, and alcoholic notes, giving it a distinctive and sophisticated profile.
Distinctive Features: XO durians are often aged slightly longer to develop their unique flavor, much like fine wine. This aging process enhances the fruit's alcoholic undertones.
Conclusion
Durian lovers are spoiled for choice with the diverse range of varieties available, each offering a unique taste and texture experience. From the rich, bittersweet Musang King to the delicate, creamy Golden Phoenix, there is a durian to suit every palate. Whether you're a seasoned durian enthusiast or a curious newcomer, exploring these different types can offer a deeper appreciation of why this fruit is celebrated as the King of Fruits.