It’s durian season again, and there’s no better time to indulge in this delicious fruit. Currently, the two most popular durian varieties in the market are Durian Ri6 and Thai Durian, known for their exquisite taste and alluring fragrance. Are you able to distinguish these two divine durians? Read on to find out more.
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1. Durian Ri6 and Thai Durian: Origin and Provenance
While both durian varieties have been introduced to Vietnam for a long time, they are only suitable for cultivation in regions with a climate similar to the Southern provinces and the Central Highlands. In the Northern regions, durian trees struggle to thrive.
Origin and provenance of the two durian varieties
Durian Ri6 originates from Cambodia and was first successfully cultivated in Vinh Long, later spreading to Ben Tre and Cai Mon. Thai Durian, on the other hand, is predominantly grown in the Mekong Delta and Southeast regions.
2. Durian Ri6 and Thai Durian: Shape
Durian Ri6 has a rhomboid shape, and it is generally larger and rounder, with a thick stem. Its green outer shell is aesthetically pleasing. When selecting Ri6, pay attention to the spikes; they are thick, large, and sparsely distributed.
Durian Ri6
Thai Durian, in contrast, has a shape resembling an egg, with one end larger than the other. Its spikes are also sparse and large, measuring approximately 1.25 cm in thickness.
Thai Durian
3. Durian Ri6 and Thai Durian: Flavor
When it comes to flavor, it is challenging to declare a clear winner between Ri6 and Thai durians. Each variety boasts its unique, delectable taste.
Flavor
Upon ripening, Ri6 emits a strong, pungent aroma. Its flesh is relatively thick, with flat seeds and a moderate level of creaminess. Consequently, Ri6 tends to yield more flesh due to its smaller seeds.
Thai Durian, on the other hand, offers generous amounts of flesh, with a subtle sweetness and just the right amount of creaminess. If you’re not a fan of bitterness, Thai Durian is the ideal choice for you.
4. Durian Ri6 and Thai Durian: Flesh Color
While the aforementioned characteristics may not be sufficiently distinguishing, the color of the flesh immediately sets the two varieties apart.
Flesh color
Durian Ri6 is characterized by its vibrant yellow flesh, which is visually appealing. In contrast, Thai Durian’s flesh is a paler shade of yellow, less enticing to the eye, but equally delicious.
5. Durian Ri6 and Thai Durian: Weight
Holding a Durian Ri6 in your hand, you’ll notice its substantial weight and firmness, typically ranging from 3 to 5 kg per fruit.
Thai Durian, on the other hand, is slightly lighter, with an average weight between 2 and 4 kg per fruit.
Durian Ri6 and Thai Durian: Weight
6. Durian Ri6 and Thai Durian: Price per kg
According to observations at fruit shops, the prices of Durian Ri6 and Thai Durian do not differ significantly. The premium varieties of both Ri6 and Thai durian are priced at approximately 180,000 to 200,000 VND per kg.
Durian Ri6 and Thai Durian: Price per kg
7. Durian Ri6 and Thai Durian: Overall Assessment
The majority of Vietnamese people favor the robust flavor of Durian Ri6, often enjoying it as a dessert.
On the other hand, Thai Durian, with its thicker flesh and higher natural sugar content, is commonly used in baking, ice cream, and sweet soups to enhance the sweetness of these treats.
Distinguishing between Durian Ri6 and Thai Durian
8. Durian Ri6 and Thai Durian: Beautiful Durian Images
Golden-hued Durian Ri6
Durian Ri6 with its captivating aroma and flavor
Thai Durian, a favorite among many
Thai Durian, golden and delicious
The arrival of summer heralds the season of durian. The irresistible fragrance and golden, mouthwatering flesh of this fruit captivate those who relish its unique qualities.
With this guide, we hope you can now confidently select the durian variety that aligns with your preferences and intended use. Why wait? Go ahead and treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious durian tonight!
Know When Durian Season Begins and Ends in Singapore
It’s that time of the year again – durian season! From May to August, the unmistakably pungent aroma of these delicious fruits will be filling the air, signaling the start of the season. Gather your friends and family, and get ready to bask in durian goodness!
How to differentiate between Ri6 and Thai Durians – a must-know for Durian lovers
To choose the perfect durian, take a look at the following characteristics that differentiate Ri6 and Thai durians.
What is Durian Dona? How to Choose the Best-Tasting Durian Dona
The ripe Donag durian boasts a light, bright green hue with a glossy sheen, and its ridges are distinctly visible. Its flesh is notably thick, with a vibrant yellow color, and its seeds are flattened or small and dry.
