The Ultimate Durian Guide for Durian Dummies

If you’ve ever found yourself scratching your head when you hear names like Musang King, D24, or XO durian, you’re not alone. These unique varieties of durian can be confusing, especially if you’re new to the world of this tropical delicacy. But fear not! In this guide, we’ll break down the most popular types of durian and help you understand what makes each one special, so you can choose the perfect variety for your taste buds.

The Ultimate Durian Guide

1. Musang King (Mao Shan Wang)

Let’s start with the king of all durians – Musang King. This variety is often considered the gold standard of durians and is the most sought-after type, especially in Southeast Asia. Known for its rich, creamy texture and bittersweet flavor, Musang King durians have a bright golden-yellow flesh that is soft, smooth, and intensely flavorful.

What makes it special: The distinct bitterness combined with a rich, custard-like sweetness makes it a fan favorite. The flavor profile is complex, with a hint of sweetness that lingers on your taste buds, followed by a slightly savory undertone.

Pro Tip: If you want to experience durian at its finest, Musang King is the way to go. But beware, its strong flavor might be an acquired taste for some!

2. D24

D24 is another well-known durian variety, beloved by durian connoisseurs and casual fans alike. It is often considered a more affordable yet equally delicious alternative to Musang King. D24 durians have a smoother, less intense flavor, making them an excellent choice for those who want to ease into the world of durians.

What makes it special: D24 is characterized by its soft, creamy flesh and a delicate balance of sweetness and bitterness. It’s slightly less pungent than Musang King, but still packs a satisfying punch in terms of flavor. Its texture is smooth, and the flesh is easily scoopable.

Pro Tip: D24 is perfect for those who want to enjoy the taste of durian without going for the boldness of Musang King. If you’re new to durians, this is a great starting point!

3. XO Durian

XO durian is often compared to a fine wine, with its aged, complex flavor. Named after the popular cognac “XO,” this durian variety is known for its fermented, slightly alcoholic taste, making it stand out from the crowd.

What makes it special: XO durians have a distinctive aroma and flavor that’s less sweet and more savory. The flesh is firm yet creamy, and the fermentation gives it a unique richness that many durian lovers crave. The slight bitterness is balanced by a deep, almost umami-like savoriness.

Pro Tip: If you’re a fan of strong, bold flavors and want something that feels more “adult,” XO durian is the one to try. It’s perfect for experienced durian eaters looking for something different.

4. Black Thorn Durian

Black Thorn is one of the rarer varieties of durian, often sought after by durian aficionados for its rich, complex flavor profile. This durian has a dark, almost black rind, hence the name “Black Thorn.”

What makes it special: The flesh of Black Thorn is a deep golden color, and it’s incredibly rich and creamy. The flavor is unique, with a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness, and it has a smooth, velvety texture that melts in your mouth. It’s often considered a top-tier variety, competing with Musang King in terms of taste and texture.

Pro Tip: Black Thorn durians are harder to find, so when you get the chance, grab one! It’s an exceptional treat for anyone looking for an indulgent and luxurious durian experience.

5. D101 Durian

D101 is a durian variety that’s a bit more niche but still holds a loyal following. Known for its creamy texture and intense sweetness, D101 is less bitter than the other varieties.

What makes it special: The D101 has a soft, velvety texture and a sweeter, more mellow flavor compared to Musang King and D24. If you prefer your durian to be less overpowering, D101 is a great option. It’s ideal for those who love the creamy texture of durian without the intense bitterness.

Pro Tip: This variety is perfect for those who want to enjoy the texture and sweetness of durian but prefer a lighter, less pungent experience.

Perfect Durian Pairings and Where to Dine

After indulging in rich, creamy durian, it’s a good idea to balance things out with a proper, nourishing meal. Durian is known to be heaty, so why not cool down with something lighter or more nutritious? Fortunately, there are plenty of dining options where you can enjoy a meal that complements your durian feast. Here are some great restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious post-durian meal.

1. Marco Polo Chinese Cuisine 富臨門酒家

If you’re craving traditional Chinese dishes after your durian feast, Marco Polo Chinese Cuisine offers a wide selection of hearty and satisfying dishes. Their Cantonese specialties, including dim sum and roast meats, are the perfect way to cool down and nourish yourself after a durian indulgence.

Pro Tip: Try their signature roasted duck for a savory, rich contrast to the sweetness of durian.

For more details and to make a reservation, visit Marco Polo Chinese Cuisine 富臨門酒家 Eatigo page

2. Little Plump Hotpot 小胖墩

For a warm and comforting meal, head to Little Plump Hotpot. Offering hotpot dining, where you can cook fresh meats and vegetables in a flavorful broth, this is a great option for a balanced and light post-durian meal.

Pro Tip: Go for the vegetable-heavy options to keep things light and refreshing after your durian experience.

For more details and to make a reservation, visit Little Plump Hotpot 小胖墩 Eatigo page

3. Tung Yuen Chinese Restaurant @ Mardhiyyah Hotel & Suites

Tung Yuen offers a variety of Chinese dishes that are both filling and nutritious. Whether you’re in the mood for fried rice or a lighter vegetable dish, their menu has something for everyone.

Pro Tip: Pair your meal with some nourishing soup to counterbalance the heatiness from the durian.

For more details and to make a reservation, visit Tung Yuen Chinese Restaurant Eatigo page

4. Fuga Tei 風雅亭 (Japanese Shabu-Shabu Buffet)

For a healthy and light option, Fuga Tei offers a Japanese shabu-shabu buffet that lets you enjoy thinly sliced meats and fresh vegetables cooked in a hot pot. This meal is ideal for cooling down after enjoying durian and is easy on the stomach.

Pro Tip: Opt for the clear broth for a refreshing and light meal that complements the rich durian.

For more details and to make a reservation, visit Fuga Tei 風雅亭 Eatigo page

5. Marina Seafood Restaurant 蒸時代

If you’re craving seafood, Marina Seafood Restaurant offers a variety of freshly prepared seafood dishes. From steamed fish to succulent prawns, their light, nutritious offerings are perfect for balancing out the richness of durian.

Pro Tip: Try their steamed fish and light broth-based dishes to rejuvenate after your durian indulgence.

For more details and to make a reservation, visit Marina Seafood Restaurant 蒸時代 Eatigo page

Conclusion

After indulging in rich, creamy durian, it’s a good idea to balance things out with a proper, nourishing meal. Durian is known to be heaty, so why not cool down with something lighter or more nutritious? Explore great dining options with eatigo, all with up to 50% off. Your post-durian recovery meal just got a whole lot more satisfying.