Do you love durian but are already getting tired of the mess that comes with eating the fresh fruit? Well, you should know that there is more to fresh durian when it comes to satisfying your cravings.

If you wish to enjoy your favorite fruit in the less messy and more exciting way, a durian pengat recipe is just what you need!

Pengat is originally a Malay cuisine. Preparing this dish requires cooking fruits in coconut milk along with a few other ingredients. That is why many people describe durian pengat as a smooth, creamy, luxurious, full-flavored and oftentimes, sinful treat that can put other durian desserts to shame.

But while this is a staple dish in many durian-themed cafes all over Singapore, nothing beats a homemade durian pengat recipe. And that is why I am here to share with you one of the best pengat recipes that I have ever made.

How to Choose the Perfect Durian

The key to a successful durian pengat is choosing and using the best fresh durian. With that in mind, here are a few tips on how to choose the perfect durian:

•   Smell the durian.

Smell the fruit along its seams or split lines. An unripe durian will not give off any aroma. On the other hand, the smell of an overripe durian is overwhelming. The perfect durian will only have a slight fragrance.

•   Take a look at its shape.

The perfect durian is slightly oblong or oval in shape. Irregularly shaped durian will have fewer chambers inside, so it means that its flesh will also be fewer.

•   Consider the variety.

When it comes to pengat recipes, the best durian cultivar that you can use is D24 as it gives the best flavor when combined with coconut milk.

The Best Durian Recipe to Try

Now you already know the various steps on how to pick the perfect durian, let us get started on making the pengat!