In my younger days, I've already known about this fruit but unlike the others, I did not really abhor its smell nor did it annoy me. I could tolerate its odor but I was not the type who'll really get upset whenever I smell it. Back then, eating the durian candies was the farthest I got to liking this fruit.
I still like to eat the durian candies particularly that of Lola Abon's which are soft and chewy. And I also often bring them home as pasalubong to my family and friends.
Surprisingly, there's an abundance of this fruit everywhere you go around Davao City today and it's not even the usual harvest season which normally occurs from July to August. But since they're in great supply now, Davaoenos and visitors from around the country and abroad have all the time to indulge in their favorite durian.
I, for one, have been buying the fruit (just the small size though) since March. Fortunately, a lot of durian is being sold along the highway just outside our neighboring subdivision so whenever I go out for a stroll alone or with my daughter or son and I chance upon the fruits being sold, I am usually tempted to buy one as well.
The arancillo variety is definitely most recommended because it's creamy and flavorful. It has a distinct yellowish meat and smaller seeds unlike the native variety. And the best way to eat it? With your hands, of course.
[Photo courtesy of bookbelowzero.com]
