I was minding my own business at the supermarket when these babies called out to me. I'm not kidding. I'd passed by the area when I must have heard my name being called. I literally stopped in my tracks and turned to my left and there it was, rows upon rows of them. It's only the garden variety though, three boxes for $10. Alas, it may not help with my cough situation, oops!
For the benefit of those who are not familiar with durians, here's a brief intro. It's widely known as the "king of fruits", distinctive for its large size, unique odour and formidable thorn-covered husk (and yes, one can get hurt with those thorns).
The edible flesh emits a strong and penetrating odour even while in the husk. People either regard the aroma as fragrant or find it overpowering and offensive. Lots of my Western friends can't stand the smell even though it seems that it has been known to the Western world for 600 years. The 19th century British naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace apparently famously described its flesh as a "rich custard highly flavoured with almonds". That's the first I'd heard about it, incidentally.
I came across this pic of a red fleshed durian. I've never seen this one before. Apparently it's only available in certain places.
3 comments:
ok I will be completely honest.... when I saw the pic I thought "what on earth is she going to do with all that... raw CHICKEN *blush* that is some funny looking fruit you got there LCC!
I have never heard of it! but the way you describe the smell they ought to be very tasteful!
LOL I never thought it would look like chicken but then I'm used to it. But I can see what you mean. :) You're so good to have an open mind about tasting it. The westerners usually keep a wide berth from it. :D
I can usually try anything once. And I love fruit. I too thought it looked like raw chicken and the bottom red fruit like a kidney. I wonder if we can get them here in San Diego?
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