Check out these 10 well-known durian types available in Singapore this season and Learn about the diverse options to help you pick the perfect durian to match your taste buds.
1-Mao Shan Wang Durian (Musang King)
Mao Shan Wang durian, also known as Cat Mountain King or Butter durian, wears a bright yellow coat. Originating from Malaysia's Kelantan, Pahang, and Johor, it's a Singaporean favorite for its intricate bitter-sweet-creamy profile. Don't be put off by the initial bitterness – the ensuing sweetness balances it out. This durian variety has made its way into popular culture, making appearances in a diverse array of treats like pastries, mooncakes, ice cream, cakes, and even coffee.
Taste: Bitter, sweet, and creamy all at once
Colour: Vivid yellow durian
Credits: Ah Seng Durian
2-XO Durian
XO durian, pale yellow and hailing from Genting, Cameron Highlands, or Johor, is a go-to for those with a hankering for bitterness with a hint of alcohol. Its chunky, soft, creamy flesh melts with an appealing touch.
Taste: Bitter with a mild alcoholic twist
Colour: Pale yellow durian
3-D24 Durian
D24 durian, also referred to as Sultan, stands as a pale yellow delight from Pahang, Johor, and Cameron Highlands, Malaysia. In the '90s, it held the crown as the celebrated durian before Mao Shan Wang's ascension. Its subtle bitterness and melting creamy texture create a delightful contrast.
Taste: A gentle bitter note, creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Colour: Pale yellow durian
4-Golden Phoenix Durian
Golden Phoenix durian, also known as Jin Feng, dons a pale yellow-white attire. Coming from Pahang and Johor, Malaysia, it marries bitterness with a hint of watery texture. Despite its modest seed, its strong aroma and sweet flesh leave a lasting impression.
Taste: A bitter note accompanied by a slightly watery texture
Colour: Pale yellow-white durian
Credits: Lobangsiah
5-Red Prawn Durian
Red Prawn durian, or Hong Xia, Ang Hay, dazzles with an orangey-red ensemble. Hailing from Pahang, Johor, Malaysia, it packs intense sweetness, making it a perfect choice for both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts.
Taste: An explosion of intense sweetness
Colour: Orangey-red durian
6-Green Bamboo Durian
Green Bamboo durian, also known as Qing Zhu or Tekka, exhibits a subtle greenish tinge. From Johor, Malaysia, it delivers a delightful combo of sweet creaminess and fibrous flesh. Savoring it takes you on a journey back in time, perfect for those with adventurous taste buds.
Taste: Distinctive and reminiscent of bygone days
Colour: A gentle greenish tinge on pale yellow durian
7-Black Gold Durian
All the way from Pahang, Malaysia, the Black Gold durian stands a grade above Mao Shan Wang. Its deep greyish undertones accompany a buttery smoothness and a lingering touch of bitterness. An experience not to be missed.
Taste: Buttery smooth texture with a hint of bitterness
Colour: Dark greyish undertones
Credits: Lobangsiah
8-Black Pearl Durian
The Black Pearl Durian, or Hei Zhen Zhu, reveals a pale yellow-grey hue. Originating from Johor, Malaysia, it boasts small seeds and a harmonious blend of slight bitterness, creaminess, and smoothness. A top choice for those seeking a balanced flavor.
Taste: A gentle touch of bitterness balanced with creaminess and smoothness
Colour: Very pale yellow and greyish durian
9-Black Thorn Durian
From the heart of Penang, Malaysia, the Black Thorn durian showcases a vibrant yellow hue, encasing custardy flesh that carries a hint of sweet creaminess along with a dash of subtle bitterness. If you come across it, don't miss the chance to savor its uniqueness.
Taste: A sweet creaminess with a subtle hint of bitterness
Colour: Bright yellow durian
10-Hor Lor Durian
The Hor Lor Durian, native to Penang, Malaysia, features an elongated form. Its delicate sweetness and milder pungency provide a pleasant alternative for those seeking a gentler flavor experience.
Taste: A mild sweetness with a touch of reduced pungency
Colour: Pale yellow durian
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