IN the realm of exotic foods, few creations can spark as much controversy as the durian, crowned the King of Fruits. Revered for its custard-like texture and distinctive taste, this tropical delicacy, abundant in Southeast Asia, presents a formidable challenge with its notorious pungent aroma.
However, despite the divisive opinions, venturing into the world of Sarawak's wild durians is an experience every culinary enthusiast should embrace.
The durian season in Sarawak heralds one of the most anticipated events for enthusiasts of the fruit. While Malaysians are acquainted with famed varieties like Musang King and D24, Sarawak boasts its own array of durian species, each flourishing in the wild.
DURIAN PAKAN (DURIO KUTEJENSIS)
Found in central and northern Sarawak, durian pakan, locally known as durian nyekak, boasts a yellowish-golden shell and exceptionally soft content. Its sweetness and unique flavour set it apart, making it a must-try for durian aficionados.
DURIAN ISU (DURIO OXYLEANUS)
Characterised by long green spikes, durian isu captivates with a lack of the overpowering scent associated with other durians. Its creamy white flesh delivers an exceptionally sweet taste, making it a popular choice.
DURIAN ISI MERAH (DURIO GRAVIOLENS)
Distinguished by its vibrant red flesh, durian isi merah stands out in local markets during the durian season. With a mild scent and thick, cheesy, nutty flesh, it's a flavourful adventure for the adventurous palate.
DURIAN KULIT MERAH (DURIO DULCIS)
Thriving in the jungles of Borneo, durian kulit merah sports a bright red exterior with sharp spikes. Despite its overwhelming smell, the soft and sweet content makes it a delicacy worth the effort.
DURIAN KURA-KURA (DURIO TESTUDINARUM)
An extremely rare variety, the durian kura-kura grows at the tree's base. Its pale yellow to brown flesh is described as light and sweet, offering a unique durian experience.
CHOOSING THE PERFECT DURIAN
Selecting the ideal durian requires a keen understanding of sensory cues, a skill often passed down through generations. Here are some valuable tips to ensure a delightful durian experience:
See: Thorns, colour, and stem provide visual clues. Larger thorns indicate fuller flesh, yellowish shells suggest ripeness and thicker stems signal nutrient-rich durians.
Smell: Ripe durians emit a rich and fragrant aroma, while unripe ones offer a green, astringent smell. An alcoholic scent indicates overripeness.
Listen: Shaking a durian reveals whether the fruits are rolling inside. A ripe durian should produce a sound akin to a hitting drum.