Durio Zibethinus [ 1 Ct ]

* **Appearance:** The fruit is large, oval to round, and covered in a hard, thick rind studded with **sharp, intimidating spikes** (its name comes from the Malay word *duri*, meaning "thorn"). The husk is typically green to brownish-yellow. * **Aroma:** It is infamous for its **overpowering and pungent smell**, which some people describe as resembling rotting onions, sulfur, or old cheese. This strong odor is why the fruit is often banned from hotels, public transportation, and airplanes in many Southeast Asian regions. * **Flavor & Texture:** Despite the smell, the edible flesh (aril) inside is a creamy, custard-like pulp that has a rich, complex flavor often described as sweet, nutty, and savory, with notes of almond and vanilla. * **Culinary Use:** It is a highly prized fruit, most often eaten fresh, but also used extensively in local cuisine to flavor sweets, desserts (like ice cream and sticky rice), and even savory dishes like curries and sauces. * **Nutrition:** Durian is exceptionally nutritious, containing high levels of healthy fats, fiber, potassium, and B-complex vitamins, including a significant amount of folate.