Durian Treats & Recipes

The King of Fruits: Exploring Ten Different Durian Recipes from Around the World

Lucy

Durian, often dubbed the “King of Fruits,” is renowned for its distinctive aroma and creamy texture. While its smell might be polarizing, its rich flavor has captivated the hearts of many food enthusiasts. Originating from Southeast Asia, durian has transcended borders to inspire a myriad of culinary creations. In this blog post, we’ll journey across the globe to explore ten different durian recipes, each highlighting the unique ways this fruit can be enjoyed.

1. Durian Ice Cream (Thailand)

In the tropical heat of Thailand, durian ice cream offers a refreshing treat that perfectly marries the creamy texture of the fruit with the coolness of ice cream. This dessert is a staple in Thai street markets, providing a sweet and rich flavor that is hard to resist.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups durian pulp
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. Blend the durian pulp until smooth.
  2. In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, condensed milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Mix the durian pulp into the milk mixture and blend until smooth.
  4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  5. Freeze the churned ice cream for at least 4 hours before serving.

2. Durian Pancakes (Malaysia)

In Malaysia, durian pancakes are a popular dessert that showcases the fruit’s luscious texture and sweet taste. These pancakes are filled with a rich durian cream, making them an indulgent treat.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups durian pulp
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 cup flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 tbsp butter, melted

Instructions:

  1. Blend the durian pulp until smooth.
  2. Whip the heavy cream with sugar until stiff peaks form, then fold in the durian pulp.
  3. For the pancake batter, mix flour, eggs, milk, and melted butter until smooth.
  4. Cook the batter in a non-stick pan, creating thin pancakes.
  5. Fill each pancake with the durian cream and fold into a neat parcel.

3. Durian Cheesecake (Singapore)

Singaporean cuisine often features durian in various forms, and durian cheesecake is a modern twist that combines the fruit with the creamy richness of cheesecake.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups crushed graham crackers
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 2 cups cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup durian pulp
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Mix crushed graham crackers with melted butter and press into the base of a springform pan.
  2. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add durian pulp and mix well.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
  4. Pour the mixture over the crust and bake at 325°F for 50-60 minutes.
  5. Cool and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

4. Durian Sticky Rice (Indonesia)

Durian sticky rice is a beloved Indonesian dessert that pairs the fruit with sweet, glutinous rice. This combination is a delightful blend of textures and flavors.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup glutinous rice
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup durian pulp
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. Soak the glutinous rice in water for 4 hours, then steam until cooked.
  2. Heat coconut milk with sugar and salt until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Mix the steamed rice with the coconut milk mixture and let it absorb.
  4. Serve the sticky rice topped with durian pulp.

5. Durian Fritters (Philippines)

In the Philippines, durian fritters are a popular snack that highlights the fruit’s versatility. These crispy, golden treats are perfect for a quick and delicious bite.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups durian pulp
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Mix flour, cornstarch, sugar, and water to create a batter.
  2. Dip durian pulp pieces into the batter.
  3. Fry in hot oil until golden brown.
  4. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.

6. Durian Curry (Thailand)

Durian is not just for desserts; it also makes a unique addition to savory dishes like Thai curry. The fruit’s creamy texture complements the spicy, aromatic curry perfectly.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups durian pulp
  • 1 lb chicken breast, diced
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 2 tbsp red curry paste
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • Fresh basil leaves

Instructions:

  1. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
  2. Add chicken and cook until browned.
  3. Stir in red curry paste and cook for 2 minutes.
  4. Add coconut milk, fish sauce, and sugar. Simmer until chicken is cooked through.
  5. Add durian pulp and cook for another 5 minutes.
  6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve with rice.

7. Durian Bread (Vietnam)

Durian bread is a popular breakfast item in Vietnam. The bread is soft and fluffy, with a rich durian filling that makes each bite delightful.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp yeast
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup durian pulp

Instructions:

  1. Mix flour, sugar, and yeast in a bowl.
  2. In another bowl, combine milk, melted butter, and egg.
  3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and knead into a dough.
  4. Let the dough rise until doubled in size.
  5. Roll out the dough and spread durian pulp over it.
  6. Roll up the dough, place in a bread pan, and let it rise again.
  7. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes.

8. Durian Smoothie (Malaysia)

For a healthy and refreshing option, try a durian smoothie. This Malaysian favorite is perfect for a quick breakfast or a post-workout snack.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup durian pulp
  • 1 banana
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • Ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. Blend all ingredients until smooth.
  2. Serve immediately in a tall glass.

9. Durian Pizza (Taiwan)

In Taiwan, durian pizza is a unique fusion dish that combines the rich flavor of durian with the savory elements of pizza. This unconventional pairing is surprisingly delicious.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pizza dough
  • 1 cup durian pulp
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves

Instructions:

  1. Roll out the pizza dough and spread durian pulp over the base.
  2. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
  3. Bake at 450°F for 10-12 minutes.
  4. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

10. Durian Chocolate Truffles (France)

Durian chocolate truffles bring a touch of French elegance to this exotic fruit. The combination of durian and chocolate creates a rich, indulgent treat.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup durian pulp
  • 8 oz dark chocolate
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • Cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions:

  1. Melt dark chocolate and butter in a double boiler.
  2. Heat heavy cream and pour over the melted chocolate, stirring until smooth.
  3. Mix in durian pulp and blend until fully incorporated.
  4. Chill the mixture until firm.
  5. Roll into small balls and dust with cocoa powder.

Final Thoughts …

Durian’s distinctive flavor and creamy texture make it a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. From the streets of Thailand to the cafes of Paris, durian has found its way into the hearts and kitchens of food lovers around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned durian enthusiast or a curious newcomer, these ten recipes offer a delightful journey through the many ways this King of Fruits can be enjoyed. So, why not give these recipes a try and discover the delicious potential of durian for yourself?