“All durians taste the same.”
Are you a durian lover? Like us, you would probably beg to differ with the statement above.
Durians might look slightly similar, but each durian species has its own unique taste and flavour. Generally, most durians have a unique and unparalleled bittersweet taste. But there are some durian species that are sweeter than others.
To date, there are more than 12 durian species in the globe. You can find sweet, bitter and even bittersweet variations.
If you are someone who enjoys candies, cakes and sweeter flavours, you probably enjoy sweeter durians more than bitter and bittersweet ones. Luckily for you, we have handpicked 6 durians that are packed with sweet flavours which are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Read on to check if you see your favourite in our list!
1. Red Prawn
Ah red prawn. If you have been keeping up with our monthly blog content, you might have come across several mentions of red prawn. However, it should come to no surprise because red prawn contains spectacularly sweet flavours!
Just like cooked shrimp, red prawns have sweet and light taste with an oh-so-subtle tinge of bitterness. It got its name from prawns and it has a bright orangey flesh that resemble cooked prawns.
The flesh is dense and creamy.
If you intend to use your durians for other dishes like cookies or cakes, skip the Mao Shan Wang and opt for red prawn for a sweeter and more candy-like taste.
2. Hor Lor
The name “Hor Lor” translates to gourd, but Hor Lor tastes nothing like bitter gourd. In fact, Hor Lor got its name from its elongated shape rather than its taste.
Unlike bitter gourd, it has a distinct sweetness that are sure to delight your taste buds if you have a sweet tooth. It’s ivory-coloured flesh is a sight for sore eyes and has a buttery texture.
Like red prawn, Hor Lor has a very subtle bitter taste. It’s neither too sweet nor bittersweet. On the other hand, it is sweet with a right hint of bitterness.
3. D1 (Ganghai)
Also known as Ganghai, D1 is next on our list for its sweet and milky taste.
Do note, however, that D1 is on the slightly drier side. If you dislike milky durians, D1 is the next species you should sink your teeth in.
Unlike other buttery durians, D1 has a subtle crunch to it.
4. D101
Some durians have very overwhelming flavours. D101 is not one of them.
Instead, D101 has a gentle taste. It is buttery and sweet enough with a very subtle sour note. It might not be as well known as cult favourites like Mao Shan Wang or red prawn, but it is still packed with the right amount of sweet flavours.
D101 is a popular favourite amongst children who prefer milder durian flavours.
5. D13
Mao Shan Wang might be one of most widely-used species in desserts and dishes, but D13 is a close second. This kampung breed has a sticky texture and a sweet taste.
It has large seeds as well as a bright orange flesh that is sure to please your taste buds.
6. D828 (Meiqui)
It might have a rather pale-looking appearance. But do not be fooled as D828 (or Meiqiu) is packed with sweet flavours and small seeds.
If you are a fan of toffee and milk chocolate, you are definitely going to love Meiqiu. Why? Well, that’s because it has a sticky and fibrous flesh that will definitely satisfy your cravings.