Durian vs Jackfruit: Comprehensive Guide to Know the Differences

Forget the age-old question of “red or blue”: the real tropical showdown is between durian and jackfruit! These two giants of the fruit world share a bold presence in the market, boasting impressive size and vibrant yellow flesh when ripe. Durian vs Jackfruit, let’s explore the differences. 

Durian and jackfruit seem like flamboyant cousins – related, yes, but with distinct personalities hiding beneath their similar, spiky exteriors. One boasts a pungent aroma that divides opinions, while the other offers a sweet, fruity allure. 

Let’s slice and dice durian vs jackfruit in terms of looks, size, taste, smell, origin and family lineage, how to grow them, and even how to use them in the kitchen! This article will help you decide which of these tropical fruits is the perfect pick for you.

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Durian vs Jackfruit: Facts Table

Feature	Durian	Jackfruit
Family	Malvaceae (hibiscus, cotton)	Moraceae (fig)
Size	2-7 lbs, 16-12″ diameter	20-80 lbs (average), up to 120 lbs, 35″ length
Appearance (Whole)	Spiky green exterior	Bumpy green exterior
Smell	Strong, pungent odor (divisive)	Sweet, fruity aroma
Taste (Ripe)	Creamy, custard-like, complex flavors	Sweet, fruity (jackfruit, banana, pineapple)
Taste (Unripe)	N/A	Neutral, meaty texture (popular meat substitute)
Uses	Desserts (custard, ice cream), savory dishes (sambal)	Meat substitute (pulled pork, shredded chicken), desserts (salads, jams, pancakes)
Origin	Southeast Asia (Sumatra, Borneo)	Southern India
Growing Conditions	Warm, sunny climates	Warm, sunny climates

Durian vs Jackfruit: Origin and Family Lineage

Both of these tropical giants belong to different families. 

Durian comes from the Malvaceae family. This group also boasts some surprising members, like the vibrant hibiscus and the fluffy cotton plant! It’s no wonder then, that durian and jackfruit share some similarities. 

On the other hand, the jackfruit comes from the Moraceae family, also called the fig or mulberry family.

Both fruits boast impressive sizes and thrive in warm, sunny climates. 

But here’s where things get interesting.

Even though durian and jackfruit are like cousins, they’ve developed their own unique personalities. This is reflected in everything from their appearance – one spiky and strong-smelling, the other smooth and sweet-scented – to their taste and how they’re used in cooking. 

Durian

Evidence suggests durian first appeared in Southeast Asia, specifically around Sumatra and Borneo, sometime in the 15th century. 

Unlike its heavyweight cousin, durian is a bit more modest in size, typically weighing in at around a third of a jackfruit. This allows durian trees to grow higher up on their branches, taking advantage of the sunlight streaming through the canopy.

Jackfruit

Jackfruit has a much longer history, with evidence suggesting its presence in Southern India as far back as 5,000 years ago! 

This fascinating family also includes the humble fig, showcasing the incredible diversity within the plant kingdom. 

Interesting fact: Jackfruit holds a unique record – it’s the largest tree-borne fruit in the world! 

Because of its immense size, jackfruit needs the sturdiest support system possible. That’s why these impressive fruits grow closest to the trunk of the tree, ensuring the branches can handle their impressive weight. 

The Anatomy of Durian and Jackfruit

Durian is encased in a thick, inedible rind covered in sharp thorns. 

This formidable armor serves two purposes: protecting the delicate flesh inside from predators and preventing the fruit from bursting open prematurely. 

Beneath the rind lies a creamy, custard-like flesh divided into segments, each containing a large, inedible seed. The number of segments can vary depending on the variety but typically ranges from five to ten. 

Durian enthusiasts prize the flesh for its unique flavor and creamy texture, but be warned – handling durian requires caution. The thorns are sharp enough to pierce the skin, so use gloves when selecting or opening the fruit.

Jackfruit boasts a similar spiky exterior, though the thorns are typically less pronounced than durian. The rind itself is thinner and more flexible, making the fruit easier to handle. 

Inside, the jackfruit reveals a fascinating structure. 

Instead of segments, the flesh is divided into lobes, each containing a single seed. The seeds themselves are smaller than durian seeds and are considered edible when roasted. 

Unlike durian, the flesh of ripe jackfruit is not creamy but rather has a fibrous texture similar to pulled pork. This characteristic makes unripe jackfruit a popular meat substitute, as it readily absorbs the flavors of the spices and sauces it’s cooked with.

Durian vs. Jackfruit Size

Imagine a kid’s bouncy ball, but green and studded with armor-worthy thorns – that’s the typical size of a durian, 16-12 inches in diameter and weighing 2 to 7 pounds. While it might not be the biggest fruit at the party, its spiky exterior demands respect when handling.

Now, for its heavyweight cousin, the jackfruit! 

This undisputed champion of the fruit kingdom is a true giant. Think of the biggest pumpkin you’ve ever seen at a fall festival, but instead of orange, picture it as a vibrant green covered in slightly less menacing bumps. 

Jackfruit can reach a staggering 35 inches in length and weight and average 80 pounds, which is roughly the weight of a medium-sized dog! Believe it or not, some varieties can even tip the scales at a jaw-dropping 120 pounds, heavier than most adult suitcases! 

While there are smaller jackfruit varieties that approach durian size, most people will see the behemoth versions first. This massive size difference has a big impact on how these fruits are handled, transported, and even grown. 

For example, durian trees can support their smaller fruit on higher branches, while jackfruit needs the sturdiest support system possible, often growing closest to the trunk to prevent branches from snapping under the weight.

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Durian vs Jackfruit Smell

Brace yourself, because this is where things get interesting – and maybe a little controversial!

Durian, often called the “king of fruits,” has a reputation that precedes it, and it’s not for the faint of heart (or nose). Its strong smell has been compared to everything from a battlefield of rotten onions and gym socks to a strangely alluring perfume. 

It’s definitely a love-it-or-hate-it kind of experience, and some cultures even liken it to unfulfilled dreams (a metaphor for the brave souls who dare to sniff it!).

Jackfruit, on the other hand, is the complete opposite in the smell department. 

It boasts a sweet, fruity aroma that reminds you of pineapple and banana. It’s a much more pleasant sensory experience compared to its spiky cousin. 

So, let your nose be your guide!

If durian’s odor seems too strong for you, jackfruit might be a more welcoming introduction to the world of tropical fruits.

Durian vs Jackfruit Taste

Durian’s smell might hit you hard at first, but you may not want to give up! 

For those brave enough to try it, the inside is a creamy, delicious surprise – like a rich custard. The taste is a wild ride, with some people loving the mix of sweetness like caramel and butter, along with hints of savory flavors like onion (but not as strong as the smell!). 

Some adventurous eaters even pick up cheesy or roasted garlic notes. This unique combination is why durian is so controversial – you either love it or hate it!

Jackfruit, when ripe, is a completely different story. 

It has a sweet and fruity taste, kind of like a tropical mix of jackfruit (of course!), banana, and pineapple. 

But jackfruit has a hidden talent! 

Unripe jackfruit doesn’t have much flavor of its own, but its texture is like meaty shreds. This makes it a perfect choice for vegetarians and vegans because it can soak up the flavors of any spices or sauces you cook it with! 

So next time you’re looking for a new and exciting ingredient, give jackfruit a try!

Durian vs Jackfruit Nutrition

Durian and jackfruit aren’t just delicious, they’re also packed with nutrients that can give your body a real boost! 

Here’s a breakdown of their nutritional facts:

Durian

• Fiber: Durian is a champion of fiber, which is essential for keeping your digestive system running smoothly. 

• Vitamin C: This spiky fruit is a great source of vitamin C, which helps your immune system fight off sickness. 

• Potassium: Durian also boasts a healthy dose of potassium, a mineral that helps regulate your blood pressure. 

• B Vitamins: Durian contains a good amount of B vitamins, which are crucial for giving you energy throughout the day. 

Jackfruit

• Fiber: Just like durian, jackfruit is a good source of fiber, keeping your digestive system happy and healthy.

• Vitamin C: Jackfruit also offers a good dose of vitamin C to help strengthen your immune system and fight off those pesky colds.

• Vitamin A: Unlike durian, jackfruit boasts a healthy dose of vitamin A, which plays a vital role in keeping your vision sharp and your cells healthy. 

So, whether you choose durian or jackfruit, you’re adding a burst of essential nutrients to your diet. It’s a win-win for your taste buds and your body!

Selecting and Storing Durian or Jackfruit

So, you’ve decided to embark on a tropical fruit adventure and bring durian or jackfruit home. Here are some tips to help you navigate the selection and storage process:

Durian

• Selection: The ideal durian should feel heavy for its size, indicating a ripe and fleshy interior. A ripe durian will also have a slight give when pressed gently near the stem. Avoid fruits with cracked rinds or a strong, overpowering odor.

• Storage: Durian is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you need to store it for a short period (1-2 days), you can refrigerate the whole durian. The strong odor can permeate other foods, so be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.

Jackfruit

• Selection: Selecting the perfect jackfruit depends on your intended use. For ripe jackfruit, choose a fruit with a slightly musky aroma and a slightly soft exterior. Unripe jackfruit, ideal for using as a meat substitute, should be firm and have a green, unblemished rind.

• Storage: You can store a ripe jackfruit in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. Unripe jackfruit can be stored at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerated for up to 2-3 weeks. Once cut open, both ripe and unripe jackfruit should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Durian and Jackfruit Uses

Spiky exteriors shouldn’t fool you – durian and jackfruit are surprisingly versatile in the kitchen! 

Get ready to explore how these tropical fruits can become delicious treats:

Durian Uses

• Desserts: Despite its strong odor, durian is a prized ingredient in Southeast Asian desserts. Its creamy flesh can be enjoyed plain, blended into smoothies, or used to make rich custards and ice cream. Durian’s unique flavor adds a complex depth to these sweet treats.

• Durian on the Savory Side: While less common, durian can also be incorporated into savory dishes. In Indonesia, it’s sometimes combined with chilies and spices to create a pungent and flavorful sambal (spicy condiment).

• Seeds With a Snack Appeal: The large seeds of durian are edible after being roasted or boiled. They have a nutty flavor and can be enjoyed as a healthy snack or used to make traditional Indonesian drinks.

Jackfruit Uses

• Meat Substitute: Unripe jackfruit is the star of the show for vegetarians and vegans. Its neutral flavor and meaty texture make it a fantastic substitute for pulled pork or shredded chicken. Simply shred the unripe jackfruit, marinate it in your favorite sauce, and cook it until tender. It readily absorbs the flavors of the spices and sauces, making it a chameleon in the culinary world.

• Salads and Salsas: Ripe jackfruit boasts a sweet, fruity flavor that shines in various dishes. It can be diced and added to salads for a tropical twist, used to make flavorful salsas, or even turned into delicious jackfruit “carnitas” tacos.

• Dessert: Don’t relegate jackfruit to just savory dishes! Ripe jackfruit is a delicious addition to desserts. It can be used to make tropical fruit salads and jams, or even transformed into delectable vegan pancakes.

Remember, both durian and jackfruit are versatile fruits with a world of culinary possibilities waiting to be explored. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and discover your own favorite way to enjoy these unique tropical treasures!

Growing Durian and Jackfruit Trees

While both durian and jackfruit are undeniably delicious, their cultivation presents unique challenges.

Durian

Durian trees are notoriously slow-growing, often taking 7-15 years to mature and bear fruit. They thrive in hot, humid climates with well-draining soil and require consistent rainfall throughout the year. 

In addition, durian trees require more stringent pest and disease control since they’re more exposed to certain invaders and pathogens. This makes them a bit more demanding for newbie gardeners. 

Jackfruit

Jackfruit trees are slightly less demanding than durian trees. 

While they still require a warm climate with ample rainfall, they can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures. 

Jackfruit trees grow faster than durian trees, typically maturing and bearing fruit within 3-5 years. However, they are prolific producers and can grow quite large, requiring significant space in your garden.

Interesting Facts to Impress Your Gardening Buddies

Here are some fun facts about durian and jackfruit to impress your fellow gardening enthusiasts:

• Durian’s Thorny Reputation: Durian’s thick, inedible rind with sharp thorns serves a vital purpose – protecting the delicate flesh inside from predators like monkeys and wild boars. It also prevents the fruit from bursting open prematurely, ensuring proper seed dispersal.

• Jackfruit’s Weighty Woes: Despite its impressive size, jackfruit grows on relatively thin branches. Special support structures are often needed to prevent the branches from breaking under the weight of the fruit. This is particularly true for giant jackfruit varieties that can tip the scales at over 100 pounds!

• Durian’s Public Transport Ban: Durian’s powerful odor can be quite offensive to some people. In fact, it’s banned from public transport in some Southeast Asian countries like Singapore to prevent unpleasant experiences for passengers.

Conclusion: Durian vs Jackfruit 

Whether you’re drawn to durian’s adventurous flavor or jackfruit’s culinary versatility, both of these tropical fruits offer a unique taste of the exotic. 

So, the next time you come across these spiky wonders at the market, take a deep breath (for durian, maybe not literally!), and embark on your own tropical taste adventure! 

Don’t be afraid to experiment and find which of these fascinating fruits tickles your taste buds (and maybe even your funny bone with durian’s unique odor). 

FAQ

Is durian called Jackfruit?

No, durian is not called jackfruit. While they are both tropical fruits with large sizes and spiky exteriors, they are actually quite different. 

Why do people eat durian?

Despite the smell, durian is a delicacy in many Asian countries. Its creamy, custard-like flesh has a complex flavor profile with notes of caramel, butter, and even hints of onion, which some find irresistible. Plus, durian boasts a significant amount of essential nutrients, making it a valuable addition to the diet.

Why is durian an expensive fruit?

The combination of several factors contributes to durian’s higher price tag:

• Short Harvest Season: Durian trees only bear fruit once a year, for a relatively short period. This results in short supply, driving up the price.

• Specific Growing Requirements: Durian trees require specific climatic conditions and meticulous care, making them more challenging and expensive to cultivate compared to some other fruits.

• Strong Odor: Durian’s powerful odor can be challenging to manage during transport and storage. This necessitates additional precautions like specialized packaging and ventilation, which adds to the cost.

Why is the durian fruit banned?

Durian’s strong odor can be offensive to some people. While it’s not banned outright in most places, it is prohibited in certain public spaces like hotels, public transport, and even some airports to prevent unpleasant experiences for others.

Why is durian so bad?

Durian’s reputation for a bad smell precedes it. However, the perception of “bad” is subjective. The taste is a matter of personal preference. Some people find durian’s unique flavor profile delicious, while others find the smell unbearable.

Jackfruit vs Durian: Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the choice between durian and jackfruit depends on your personal preferences and culinary goals.

• Durian: If you’re an adventurous eater and curious about unique flavors, durian is worth a try. Just be prepared for the strong odor and ensure you purchase a ripe fruit for the best experience.

• Jackfruit: Jackfruit offers more versatility. The ripe fruit has a sweet, fruity flavor and can be enjoyed fresh or used in desserts. Unripe jackfruit shines as a meat substitute, readily absorbing the flavors of your favorite dishes. Additionally, jackfruit trees are generally easier to grow than durian trees.