KOMPAS.com – Durian, the king of fruit, is a favorite of many people because of its distinctive taste and aroma.
However, choosing a durian that is perfectly ripe and has thick flesh is often a challenge, especially if you have to take it home without a guarantee from the seller.
How to choose a good durian
So that you don’t make the wrong choice, here are some tips from Mohamad Reza Tirtawinata, Chair of the Durian Nusantara Foundation.
1. Smell the aroma
One simple way to determine the ripeness of a durian is to smell the aroma. Hold the durian fruit close to your nose.
Also read: Recipe for Rolled Pastries Filled with Durian Jam, a Snack for Eid
If the aroma is strong, it is a sign that the durian is ripe. On the other hand, if the smell is still faint, the durian is probably not ready to eat.
2. Pay attention to the shape of the fruit
Durian with a round shape tends to have a larger portion of flesh than oval durian. Oval durian usually has thicker skin so there is less space for flesh.
Round durian can even have a meat portion of up to 40 percent of the total fruit, such as the Montong durian type.
3. Pay attention to the size and weight of the durian
When buying durian, pay attention to its size and weight. It turns out, choose one that is small in size and weighs only 1 to 2 kilograms.
Also read: 4 Popular Types of Durian in Thailand, There is Monthong
That’s because small durians tend to have thick, evenly cooked flesh.
4. Check the bottom edge
It is also important to check the bottom of the durian. Avoid durian with cracked or split bottom skin.
Illustration of Monthong durian.This indicates that air has entered the fruit, which can make the taste bland or reduce its sweetness.
5. Listen for echo sounds
To make sure the durian is ripe, you can tap the durian skin with the blade of a knife. If the sound sounds like an inward echo, it’s a sign that the meat is tender and cooked. On the other hand, the sound that bounces out indicates that the durian flesh is still raw.
6. Observe the shape of the spines
The shape of the spines on the durian skin can also provide a clue. Durian with long, dense thorns tends to have softer and less dry flesh. Conversely, wide, sparse spines usually indicate drier meat.
Also read: Cassava Durian Sauce Recipe, Savory and Fragrant Snack
7. Check the durian stalk
Durian that falls naturally from a tree usually has a stalk with an uneven surface.
On the other hand, if the stalk looks flat, the durian was probably picked prematurely. Choosing natural fallen durian can increase your chances of getting the best taste.
By implementing these tips, you can not only enjoy delicious durian, but also ensure the best quality when buying to take home. Happy durian hunting!
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