Six years ago, I came back home and a scent caught me by the nostrils. I almost threw up at the smell of a durian fruit, that my husband was casually eating while he played video games. Sadly, I never got quite accustomed to the scent. But many of my friends and family members love it! For those of you who don’t know what it is, meet the durian fruit.

The durian fruit, with its pungent odor and spiky shell, has been a Chinese culinary staple for millennia. Despite its pungent odour, the Chinese have acquired a great love and admiration for this distinctive fruit. So, why do Chinese people enjoy eating the pungent durian fruit? Let’s look at some of the reasons for this cultural phenomena.

To begin with, the Chinese have a long tradition of including foods with strong flavors and fragrances in their diet. This can be seen in dishes like stinky tofu and century eggs, both popular in Chinese cuisine. The durian, with its pungent and unique odor, fits well in with this history of powerful and intense flavors.

Another reason why durian is popular in China is its purported health benefits. In traditional Chinese medicine, durian is thought to have warming characteristics, making it an ideal diet for the cold winter months. It is also thought to have anti-inflammatory qualities and is commonly used to treat digestive problems. Chinese people regard durian as a source of energy and vitality, making it a popular choice for individuals seeking to improve their general health.

Moreover, the Chinese place a high weight on the idea of “qi,” or life force, and think that particular meals can help balance and improve this energy. Durian is considered a “yang” meal in Chinese medicine, which means it is thought to warm the body and boost energy levels. This is why many Chinese people consume durian during the colder months to counteract the winter chill and improve their qi levels.

Besides its supposed health benefits, the durian has cultural significance in Chinese communities. It is commonly used in celebratory meals, particularly during the Lunar New Year, because its spiky appearance is thought to bring good fortune and riches. In some Chinese cultures, the durian is also considered a fertility sign and is presented as a wedding gift.

Despite its powerful aroma, the fruit has a creamy, custard-like texture and a sweet, nutty flavor. It is commonly used in desserts such as durian cakes and ice cream, but it is also eaten on its own as a snack. In fact, durian has grown in popularity in China to the point where there are now durian-themed cafes and restaurants to meet the rising demand for this distinctive fruit.

While some may be turned off by its pungent odor, the Chinese people have embraced this fruit as an essential component of their diet and culture.

So, the next time you come across a durian, don’t be afraid to taste it; you might find a new favorite fruit. I didn’t.