What is Durian & What Does Durian Taste Like?
- Lung Wah Chong
- Jul 1
- 2 min read
Known as the "King of Fruits", durian is one of the most iconic and controversial fruits in the world. With its spiky exterior and strong aroma, it divides opinion — people either love it or avoid it. But what is durian, really? And what does durian taste like?
In this blog, we’ll explore where durian comes from, how it tastes, and why it’s loved across Asia, especially in desserts like durian puffs and Musang King ice cream.
What Is Durian?
Durian is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, especially popular in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It’s large, thorn-covered, and can weigh up to 3kg.
Inside, you’ll find several soft, custard-like pods of yellow or pale cream fruit. The texture is creamy and rich often compared to cheesecake or custard.
Durian is famous (and infamous) for its strong smell — so strong that it’s banned on public transport in parts of Asia! But while the aroma is intense, the taste is a completely different experience.
What Does Durian Taste Like?
Durian has a unique taste that’s hard to describe — it’s sweet, savoury, and slightly nutty all at once.
Common flavour notes:
Sweet custard
Caramelised onion
Roasted almond
Mild garlic
Vanilla with hints of chive
Some people say it tastes like a creamy dessert; others find it pungent and overpowering. The key? Try it fresh and ripe or sample a beginner-friendly dessert like a durian puff.
⭐ What Is Musang King Durian?
One of the most prized varieties is Musang King (Mao Shan Wang) — grown mainly in Malaysia. It has:
Bright yellow flesh
A strong but pleasant aroma
Silky smooth texture
Intense, sweet-bitter flavour
Musang King is often used in high-end desserts like durian mooncakes, Swiss rolls, or ice cream.
🧁 Want to Try Durian in London?
If you're wondering where to try durian desserts in London, head to:
🍴 Gouqi Restaurant – St James's, London
📍 25-34 Cockspur Street, SW1Y 5BNKnown for premium Chinese cuisine, Gouqi now serves exclusive durian puffs and desserts using authentic Musang King paste.
These light, flaky pastries are filled with creamy durian — a must-try for fans and first-timers alike.
💡 Durian FAQ
Is durian healthy? Yes — durian is packed with vitamins, fibre, and antioxidants.
Why does durian smell so strong? The scent comes from sulphur compounds that intensify as the fruit ripens.
Can I cook with durian? Absolutely - it’s popular in cakes, pancakes, mochi, and even savoury dishes in Southeast Asia.
🎯 Final Thoughts
So, what is durian? It’s a bold, unforgettable fruit loved for its richness, depth of flavour, and creamy texture.
What does durian taste like? For some, it’s dessert heaven. For others, it’s an acquired taste. But one thing’s for sure: durian is an experience worth trying at least once.
Want to stock Musang King paste or offer durian desserts at your café or bakery?
📦 Contact Lung Wah Chong, a trusted wholesale supplier of premium Asian ingredients to the UK’s top restaurants.
