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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.

17 March, 2024

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Currently, on the market, the two most popular types of durian are Ri6 durian and Thai durian, with their delicious taste and enticing aroma. So, do you know about these two heavenly types of durian?

Durian has been introduced to Vietnam for a long time. However, these two types of durian can only be grown in places with a climate similar to the Southwestern and Central Highland provinces. In the Northern region, it is very difficult to grow and develop durian.

Ri6 durian originates from Cambodia and was first successfully cultivated in Vinh Long and later spread to other provinces like Ben Tre and Cai Mon. Thai durian is mainly grown in the Mekong Delta and Southeastern regions.

About the shape:

Ri6 durian has a diamond, large, and round shape. It feels firm and heavy when holding it, with each fruit weighing from 3-5kg. The layers of durian are thick and the green skin is beautiful. When selecting, pay attention to the thorns. The thorns of Ri6 durian are thick and large, but quite sparse.

Thai durian has an oval shape, with one end being larger and the other end being smaller, like an egg. The thorns of Thai durian are also sparse and large, with a thickness of 1.25cm. Thai durian weighs slightly less than Ri6 durian, ranging from 2-4kg.

Taste:

If we compare the taste of Ri6 and Thai durian, it is impossible to compare the flavors of these two types of durian. Each type has its own unique and delicious taste.

When ripe, Ri6 durian has a very strong and rich aroma. The flesh of Ri6 durian is thick, with small seeds and a moderate richness. Therefore, when buying Ri6 durian, it is advantageous to eat the flesh as the seeds of Ri6 durian are quite small.

Thai durian has a very thick flesh, with a sweet and slightly fatty flavor. If you don’t like bitter flavors, Thai durian is the perfect choice.

The color of the durian flesh:

The above characteristics make it difficult for you to distinguish between these two types of durian, but when you look at the color of the durian flesh, you can quickly differentiate them. The flesh of Ri6 durian has a distinct golden yellow color, which looks very beautiful. On the other hand, the flesh of Thai durian has a lighter yellow color, which is not as visually appealing.

Most Vietnamese people prefer the strong and flavorful taste of Ri6 durian, so Ri6 durian is usually used as a dessert. Thai durian, with its thick flesh and sweet taste, is often used to make cakes, ice cream, or sweet soups to enhance the rich and sweet flavors.

The characteristic of the summer season is the arrival of durian season, which is the perfect time for consumers to enjoy durian.

Source: Phụ nữ Mới

Frequently asked questions

Ri6 durian is native to Cambodia and found success in Vietnam, particularly in Vinh Long, and later spread to provinces like Ben Tre and Cai Mon. On the other hand, Thai durian is predominantly cultivated in the Mekong Delta and Southeastern regions of Vietnam.

Ri6 durian boasts a distinctive diamond shape and is notably larger and rounder. It feels firm and substantial in your hand, weighing between 3-5kg. The layers of the fruit are thick, and the green skin is aesthetically pleasing. The thorns of Ri6 durian are thick, large, and sparsely distributed.

In contrast, Thai durian has an oval shape, resembling an egg, with one end larger than the other. Its thorns are also sparse and large, measuring approximately 1.25cm in thickness. Thai durian is slightly lighter, weighing in at 2-4kg.

Both varieties offer unique taste profiles that are hard to compare directly. Ri6 durian, when ripe, exudes a potent and rich aroma. Its flesh is thick, and the seeds are small, making it advantageous for consumption. The flavor is moderately rich.

Thai durian, on the other hand, has very thick flesh with a sweet and slightly fatty taste. It is an excellent choice for those who prefer a less bitter flavor profile.

The flesh color is a defining feature that helps differentiate between these two varieties. Ri6 durian has a distinct golden yellow flesh color, which is visually appealing. Thai durian, in contrast, has a lighter yellow flesh color that is less striking.

Most Vietnamese people favor the robust and flavorful taste of Ri6 durian, often enjoying it as a dessert. Thai durian, with its thick flesh and sweet taste, is commonly used in cakes, ice cream, or sweet soups to enhance the rich and sweet flavors of these desserts.

Summer is synonymous with durian season in Vietnam, providing the perfect opportunity for consumers to indulge in these heavenly fruits and satisfy their cravings.