Bizarre durian food pairings
Love it or hate it, durian holds a special place in the hearts of many Malaysians. Its creamy texture and unmistakable aroma make it one of the most memorable and divisive fruits around. But durian isn’t just something you eat on its own. Some innovative chefs have taken it to new heights by pairing it with dishes you’d never expect.
Here are 8 unusual durian food combinations in Malaysia that might just make you curious enough to give them a try.
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1. Durian Ramen
At Menya Shishido in Petaling Jaya, they’ve taken a bold leap by combining Japanese tonkotsu broth with the creaminess of durian. Served in a hollowed-out durian husk and priced at RM40, this dish comes topped with durian flesh, chashu, boiled egg, and spring onions for a truly one-of-a-kind meal.
The rich, fatty broth pairs surprisingly well with the sweet, pungent durian, creating an unusual yet fascinating blend of flavours. If you’re a fan of both Japanese cuisine and durian, it’s a match worth experiencing.
Address: 2, Jalan 51a/225, Seksyen 51a, 46100 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: Wed-Mon 11am-9.30pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
Contact: Menya Shi Shi Do Facebook
2. Durian Pizza
US Pizza Malaysia brings an unexpected twist to their menu with the nation’s first durian-flavoured pizza. For RM14.95, you get a 9-inch pizza topped with either Musang King or D24 durian. Musang King offers a unique blend of bittersweet flavours, while D24 brings a smoother, creamier sweetness to the table.
The crust is even designed to mimic the spiky exterior of a durian, adding a playful touch to your meal. It’s a quirky way to blend classic Italian comfort food with a distinct Malaysian twist.
See all US Pizza outlets in Malaysia here.
3. Durian Sushi
At Hanasaka in Kajang, the Durian Sushi is a fusion worth mentioning, featuring fresh durian flesh wrapped like an egg layer around the sushi roll. Originally offered as a limited-time item in May 2023, this dish masterfully blends the durian’s rich, bold taste with the subtle elegance of sushi.
The sushi rice and durian come together to create an intriguing mix of sweet and savoury, turning every bite into an unexpected experience. If it makes a comeback, don’t miss your chance to try this unique twist on Japanese cuisine.
Address: Union Square Bangi, Persiaran Bangi Avenue, Kajang, Selangor
Opening hours: Wed-Mon 11am-10pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
Contact: Hanasaka Facebook
4. Roti Canai Durian
Roti Tempayan Pasir Pekan in Kelantan takes the classic roti canai and gives it a special twist with creamy durian paste from Tangkak, Johor. For just RM8, this dish delivers a burst of flavour that makes the flaky, crispy roti truly shine.
The combination of the crunchy roti and rich durian filling creates an unforgettable treat that works well as breakfast or even a late-night indulgence. It’s a unique twist on a local favourite, perfect for those looking to elevate their roti experience.
Address: 1, Bulatan Pasir Pekan, Kampung Baharu, 16250 Wakaf Bharu, Kelantan
Opening hours: Sat-Thu 3.30pm-12am (Closed on Fridays)
Contact: Roti Tempayan Pasir Pekan Facebook
5. Durian Chicken Hotpot
Over at Claypot Sifu in Kuala Lumpur, the Durian Chicken Hotpot stands out for its special blend of flavours. Priced at RM138, this dish features tender, free-range chicken cooked in sweet coconut water and durian base, which transforms into a savoury broth as it simmers.
The blend of the durian’s sweetness with the rich chicken broth is comforting and aromatic, making it an ideal meal for a chilly evening. If you’re in the mood for a hotpot with an exotic twist, this one will leave an impression.
Address: 53-1, Jalan Barat, off, Jalan Imbi, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Sat-Thu 11am-3am (Closed on Fridays)
Contact: Claypot Sifu Instagram
6. Durian Affogato
In the heart of KL, Durian BB offers Durian Affogato—a dessert that marries the creamy sweetness of durian with the bitter kick of espresso. It’s a bold, balanced dessert that’s perfect for anyone who loves their coffee with an adventurous edge.
The bold aroma of durian paired with the deep bitterness of coffee makes for a truly one-of-a-kind dessert. This affogato offers a memorable way to enhance your coffee experience with a distinct Malaysian flavour.
Address: 50, Jalan Sultan, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Mon-Wed 12pm-10am | Thurs 12pm-11pm | Fri & Sat 12pm-12am | Sun 12pm-11pm
Contact: Durian BB website I Instagram
7. Fermented Durian Curry (Tempoyak)
Image credit: Jazlin Hanie via Youtube
Tempoyak, or fermented durian curry, is a beloved dish popularly served from Gobang Maju Tol in Temerloh, Pahang. Priced affordably, this dish features fermented durian, fish, and a mix of spices like daun kunyit and sambal, creating a tangy, savoury flavour that’s incredibly addictive.
Image credit: Mark Weins via Youtube
Tempoyak curry is both an acquired taste and a local favourite, delivering an explosion of sour, savoury, and spicy flavours. If you’re ready to discover how fermentation can elevate durian, this dish is worth every bite.
Address: Lot 5086, Mukim Songsang, Kampung Raja, 28000 Temerloh, Pahang
Opening hours: 10.30am-8pm, Daily
Contact: Gobang Maju Tol Instagram
8. Durian Soda
If you’re up for an unusual beverage, Tomomasu’s Durian Soda might be just the thing for you. Available online through Shojikiya for RM7.90, this fizzy drink carries the unmistakable aroma of durian, but in a lighter, sparkling form that’s sweet and refreshing.
It’s a fun, adventurous way to enjoy durian without the intensity of the fruit itself. If you’re curious about new flavours and like your drinks with a twist, this bubbly take on durian might surprise you.
Unusual durian food pairings to try in Malaysia
Whether you’re a durian enthusiast or simply curious about it, these creative dishes show that there’s so much more to durian than just eating it fresh. From ramen to hotpot and even soda, the King of Fruits has proven itself as a versatile ingredient that keeps pushing boundaries.
Curious about other unique flavours? Check out these other unusual food in Malaysia:
- 10 makan places with weird food combos
- This Malaysian company sells meatless meat made from crickets
Cover image adapted from: @summade_albany via Instagram, Crisp of Life