Seasonal Eating: The Hunt for Durian

One of the sweetest things about summer is the availability of exotic fruits from all corners of the world. For me, the summer season also spells durian season. Because it’s a seasonal fruit that thrives in tropical climates, it only surfaces around this time of year. Durian reminds me of Soursop (Annona muricata), which is also very hard to find. 

The only downside to durian is its stickiness and how it makes a mess of everything I touch afterwards. Otherwise, the custardy texture and the sharp, yet sweet, polarizing aroma that fills the air makes it one of my favorite fruits to eat every year. It’s a sensory experience you either completely crave or actively avoid. 

Finding it is always tough. Standard supermarkets rarely carry it, so I spend weeks looking for where to buy one. It’s a lot of effort for a fruit, but that’s the beauty of seasonal eating. The scarcity makes the reward taste that much better when you finally track down a vendor who has it in stock. 

Diversity of Durian Species

While the hunt is difficult, it helps to know that there are over 30 recognized species of durian, though only about nine produce edible fruit. The most common variety found globally is Durio zibethinus, which originates from Borneo and Sumatra. However, the landscape of durian is vast:

• Thailand is the world’s largest producer, famous for the Monthong (Golden Pillow) variety, known for its mild smell and sweet, creamy flesh. 
• Malaysia specializes in premium, intense varieties like the Musang King (Mao Shan Wang), celebrated for its bittersweet taste and bright yellow flesh, and the rare Black Thorn. 
• Indonesia boasts unique types like the Red-Fleshed Durian (Durio graveolens) and the milder Lai Durian (Durio kutejensis) native to Borneo. 
• Other notable growing regions include the Philippines (particularly Davao City), Vietnam, and parts of Australia and Hawaii, though these produce on a smaller scale. 

Unfortunately, despite this global variety, there are no durian sellers near me this year. I’ll have to wait until next year, if you've found one this year, happy snacking.