Vegan lovers: This fruit works in every dish
What's the story
Durian, the "king of fruits," is a love-it-or-hate-it delicacy due to its pungent odor. However, beneath its divisive aroma lies a fruit with the potential to shine in a wide range of vegan dishes. This article highlights five creative ways to utilize durian in both sweet and savory vegan recipes, proving that this controversial fruit is more than just a smelly curiosity.
Smoothie bowl
Durian smoothie bowl
A durian smoothie bowl is a healthy and adventurous way to kickstart your morning. Simply blend durian flesh with coconut milk and frozen bananas until creamy. Pour it into a bowl and add your favorite vegan granola, fresh fruits, and a drizzle of agave syrup for extra sweetness. This breakfast not only transports you to the tropics but also fuels your body with essential vitamins and minerals.
Cheesecake
Vegan durian cheesecake
If you love desserts, turning durian into a creamy vegan cheesecake is a brilliant way to enjoy it. You can create a base with crushed nuts and dates, and a filling by blending durian pulp with soaked cashews, coconut oil, lemon juice, and a touch of maple syrup for added sweetness. Chilled until set, this cheesecake delivers an indulgent treat with a distinct flavor profile. Yummy and healthy!
Curry
Durian curry
Adding durian to savory dishes might raise a few eyebrows, but it's a game-changer! Think creamy durian curry. Simmered in coconut milk, fragrant with turmeric and cumin, loaded with your favorite veggies, and starring sweet, tender chunks of durian flesh, this curry is a flavor explosion. It's sweet but spicy, aromatic, and perfect with rice or flatbreads.
Fried rice
Durian fried rice
Revive leftover rice with the magic of durian fried rice. Start by sauteing onions, garlic, bell peppers in sesame oil, then add rice and chunks of durian flesh directly to the pan. Season everything with soy sauce or tamari for depth of flavor, and spring onions for freshness. The sweet durian contrasts beautifully with the savory ingredients, creating a meal that's sure to be remembered.
Chips
Baked durian chips
If you want a healthier snack option that doesn't compromise on taste, baked durian chips are the way to go. Just thinly slice some durian flesh, lay it out on a baking sheet, dust it lightly with salt, and bake until crispy. These chips are a fun twist on classic potato chips, delivering that crave-worthy crunch with a burst of durian flavor you won't find in any store-bought snack.