Up until I got here in Singapore, I never really liked Durian. I didn't hate it but I just didn't like it. I didn't mind its notorious smell but I just thought the texture and flavour were a bit odd. Lately though, for some strange twist of fate, I developed this fondness for durian. I think it started last year when I got to taste durian-flavoured moon cake. And as they say, the rest is history (lol).
According to Wikipedia, a typical durian tree can bear fruit after 4 or 5 years. Wow, that sure is a long wait! No wonder, this fruit is expensive.
We headed to Geylang one saturday night to satisfy our durian cravings. I always love the idea of open markets especially at night where you can freely wander around sans the heat of the scorching sun.
Geylang is the perfect place in Singapore (if not the only place) to sample durian as it is literally everywhere. We actually had a difficult time choosing which stall to eat at.
Durian comes in different variants and we tried "D24 - around $8 a piece" and "XO - around $15 a piece". I was introduced to "XO" by my flatmate, Al, sometime ago and I remember liking its strong taste that leaves this hint of alcoholic flavour. Zach doesn't like it though he finds it too bitter.
I remember watching Anthony Bourdain's feature about Durians and he said, "Its taste can only be described as...indescribable, something you will either love or despise. ...Your breath will smell as if you'd been French-kissing your dead grandmother." That's hilarious but I think a bit exaggerated. Ironically though, some people find its smell aromatic while some (or most) find it repulsive.
We also bought some watermelon and pears to take home since the display of fruits were too irresistable, plus they were a tad cheaper.
So that was our durian experience! :)
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So that was our durian experience! :)
