Kitchen Dictionary: durian

The fruit of a Malaysian tree that can weigh up to 10 pounds. It has a brownish-green, semi-hard shell covered with thick spikes, and is slightly larger than a football. The creamy, slightly sweet flesh has a rich custardy texture. The seeds are roasted and eaten like nuts. The fruit has an overpowering odor, similar to stinky feet. Durian has been described as "smelling like Hell and tasting like Heaven." Durian fruit is used in a variety of Malaysian sweets, such as candy, rose biscuits and cakes.

Ethnicity: Malaysian Ingredient

Season: available year-round

How to select: Generally not available fresh in the US. Preserved dried, canned and frozen durian can be found in Asian markets.