Durian among world’s worst rated tropical fruits: Taste Atlas

Primarily grown in tropical countries like Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia, the durian is distinctive for its large size, strong odor, and thorn-covered rind.

“A large spiky outer shell reveals a creamy, almost custard-like flesh, which, besides boasting a mildly sweet flavor, is notorious for being incredibly rank-smelling,” according to Taste Atlas.

Many countries across Asia ban durian from public transport, hotels, and other enclosed spaces, which testifies to the fruit’s strong stench.

However, durian has become a popular staple as it is used to prepare specialties such as cakes and puffs, ice cream or shaved ice, durian fritters, tempoyak (fermented durian) or Thai-style sweet soup.

In addition to durian, dragon fruit from central Vietnam with red skin, white flesh and tiny black seeds also joined the list along with Colombia’s Tamarillo, known as known as tree tomatoes, Spain’s persimmon and Portugal’s red passion fruit.

Unpopular the world over, durian and dragon fruit are yet among the eight best rated tropical fruits in Asia, according to Taste Atlas.