The Quest for the Stinky Fruit: A New Yorker's Guide to Durian
Ah, durian. The king of fruits, the stinky fruit, the fruit that smells like gym socks and tastes like heaven (or so I'm told). If you're a durian aficionado living in the concrete jungle, you know the struggle is real. Finding this pungent delicacy can be a culinary quest worthy of Indiana Jones, minus the snakes and booby traps (hopefully). But fear not, my fellow durian devotees, for I'm here to guide you through the urban jungle and lead you to the promised land of spiky, smelly goodness.
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| Where To Buy Durian In New York City |
In Search of the King (and His Odor)
First things first, let's talk about the elephant in the room, or rather, the durian in the room. This fruit is notorious for its, shall we say, distinctive aroma. It's the kind of smell that can make your eyes water and your neighbors complain. But don't let that deter you! Beneath that pungent exterior lies a creamy, custard-like flesh that's sweet, rich, and utterly addictive.
Now, where can you find this fragrant treasure in the Big Apple? Here are a few hotspots to get you started:
- Chinatown: This is your best bet for fresh durian. Head to the bustling streets of Chinatown, and you'll likely find several fruit stands and Asian supermarkets selling this prized fruit. Just follow your nose (or maybe bring a gas mask, just in case).
- Asian Supermarkets: Keep an eye out for Asian supermarkets in other neighborhoods too. Places like H Mart and Sunrise Mart often carry durian, especially during peak season.
- Online Retailers: If you're feeling lazy or can't find durian in your local area, you can always order it online. Several online retailers specialize in exotic fruits and will deliver durian right to your doorstep. Just be prepared for the delivery person's reaction when they get a whiff of your package.
Tips for the Durian Hunter
Now that you know where to look, here are a few tips to help you in your durian quest:
QuickTip: Skim slowly, read deeply.
- Timing is key: Durian season typically runs from June to August, so that's when you'll have the best chance of finding fresh, high-quality fruit.
- Trust your nose: A ripe durian should have a strong, sweet aroma. If it smells rotten or has no smell at all, it's probably not worth your money.
- Look for plumpness: A good durian should feel heavy for its size and have a slightly soft, yielding texture.
- Don't be afraid to ask: The staff at Asian supermarkets are usually very knowledgeable about durian. Don't hesitate to ask them for recommendations or tips on how to choose the best fruit.
Durian: Love It or Leave It
Durian is definitely an acquired taste. Some people can't get enough of it, while others find it utterly repulsive. But if you're adventurous and willing to try something new, I encourage you to give it a shot. You might just discover your new favorite fruit. And if you don't like it, well, at least you can say you tried it. Just don't blame me if your apartment smells like a garbage truck for a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to choose a ripe durian?
Look for a strong, sweet aroma, a heavy weight for its size, and a slightly soft texture.
QuickTip: Look for patterns as you read.
How to store durian?
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Store it in the refrigerator to slow down the ripening process and contain the smell.
How to eat durian?
QuickTip: Reread tricky spots right away.
Cut it open and scoop out the flesh with a spoon. Be careful of the sharp spines on the outside.
How to get rid of the durian smell?
Air out your space, use air fresheners, and try placing bowls of activated charcoal around the area.
QuickTip: Stop scrolling if you find value.
How to cook with durian?
Durian can be used in desserts like ice cream, cakes, and pastries. You can also find savory dishes that incorporate durian, but those are for the truly adventurous.
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