Durian lovers, rejoice because the minor durian season is here!
The primary season typically occurs between June to August each year, but there is a minor season which takes place from now till the middle of January where you can get your much-needed durian fix.
But as you might expect, there are going to be durian fans across the country eyeing our Mao Shan Wang stocks. This should come to no surprise since Mao Shan Wang (also known as MSW durian or Musang King) is one of the most well-loved durian species known to the world. Its bittersweet tastes are unrivalled, and it has just the right amount of richness and creaminess.
While MSW is, without a doubt, one of our best sellers, there are tons of other durian species that deserve some love for their distinct flavours. In fact, you might even find some of these durians tastier and more flavourful than Mao Shan Wang.
Without further ado, let’s take a close look at some of these underrated but juicy durian species.
1. S17
Perhaps one of our best-kept secrets, S17 might appear paler relative to Mao Shan Wang, but do not be fooled as this durian has a robust bittersweet taste as well as a thick & creamy texture to go with it.
It is packed with marvelous flavours that are sure to match the ever-loved MSW.
Do note, however, that S17 is a relatively rare species and you won’t be able to find it as easily during minor or offseasons.
2. Red Prawn
If you have always found Mao Shan Wang a bit too bitter for you, you might prefer red prawn durians.
Like cooked shrimp, red prawn durians have a pinkish flesh (that’s how it got its name!).
It is creamy and dense with a mild tinge of bitterness and loads of sweetness. Red prawn durian is perfect for anyone who has a strong sweet tooth.
3. D101
You might have heard of D24 and even D13, but have you ever tried D101?
Unsurprisingly, D101 is usually mistaken for Mao Shan Wang because it has the same yellow tinge as the latter and also has small seeds. However, D101 is a lot sweeter than MSW. It also has a creamy and buttery texture.
Like red prawn, D101 is a familiar favourite for individuals who prefer sweeter durians over bitter ones.
4. Hor Lor
The phrase “Hor Lor” sounds a lot like “Hor Lo” which is the Hokkien word for gourd, but it is no coincidence that they sound similar because Hor Lor durians were actually named after gourds!
Why? Well, that’s because the durian looks like a gourd.
Hor Lor durians are a lot longer than rounder durians like red prawn or S17. They are sweeter and have small seeds.
Hor Lor durians are also on the drier side. If you are not a fan of cream durians, then you must give Hor Lor durians a try!
5. Green Bamboo
Every king needs a queen. And MSW’s queen is none other than Green Bamboo.
Also known as Musang Queen, green bamboo durians have a creamy and bittersweet aftertaste – just like the famous Musang King.
Unlike MSW, it has a slightly greenish flesh. it also has a very distinct aroma to complement its bittersweet after taste.
However, it has a thicker husk as well as an orange stem in the middle of its core.