Brace Yourself: These 5 Stinkiest Fruits Might Just Be Your New Favorite Treat!

Ever wondered what the stinkiest fruits on the planet are? If you’re thinking that fruits are all about sweet aromas and refreshing tastes, think again. Some fruits are so pungent that they could clear a room faster than a skunk at a perfume factory. But here’s the kicker: many of these odoriferous delights are incredibly delicious! Intrigued? You should be.

From the infamous durian to the lesser-known but equally smelly noni, this list will take you on a trip through the world of fruits that have a reputation for their strong, sometimes offensive smells. Yet, despite their stench, these fruits are loved by many for their unique flavors and health benefits. Ready to hold your nose and dive in?

Let’s check out these aromatic oddities and discover why they are both reviled and revered.

Highlights

• Discover the top five stinkiest fruits in the world.
• Learn why these fruits are beloved despite their smell.
• Uncover surprising health benefits and cultural significance.

Durian: The King of Stink

Ah, durian. Known as the “king of fruits” in Southeast Asia, this spiky, formidable fruit is infamous for its powerful odor. Imagine a combination of rotten onions, turpentine, and raw sewage. It’s so potent that it’s banned from public transport in several countries! Yet, despite its notorious smell, durian is cherished for its creamy, custard-like flesh and complex flavor profile.

Durian’s aroma is due to a mix of sulfur compounds, which are also found in onions and garlic. But don’t let the smell deter you. Fans of durian describe its taste as a mix of sweet almond, caramel, and vanilla. It’s also packed with nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. In some cultures, durian is even considered an aphrodisiac.

So, while durian might make you gag at first whiff, its rich, unique flavor could make you a convert. Just remember to brush your teeth afterward.

• Over 30 distinct sulfur compounds contribute to durian’s smell.
• Banned on public transport in countries like Thailand and Singapore.
• High in nutrients, including vitamin C and potassium.

Noni: The Cheese Fruit

Noni, also known as the “vomit fruit” or “cheese fruit,” is another contender for the title of stinkiest fruit. Native to Southeast Asia and Australasia, noni emits a smell that can be likened to strong cheese or, as some unfortunate souls describe it, vomit. Despite this, noni is revered for its medicinal properties and is often used in traditional medicine.

The fruit is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and other nutrients. It’s commonly consumed as a juice, which, thankfully, tones down the smell a bit. Noni juice is believed to boost the immune system, improve digestion, and even have anti-cancer properties. However, the taste is an acquired one, often described as bitter and sour.

So, if you can get past the initial olfactory assault, noni might just be a superfruit worth adding to your diet.

• Nicknamed “vomit fruit” due to its strong smell.
• High in antioxidants and vitamin C.
• Used in traditional medicine for its health benefits.

Jackfruit: The Giant Stinker

Jackfruit is the largest tree-borne fruit in the world, and it comes with a smell to match. When ripe, jackfruit emits a strong, musky odor that can be off-putting to some. However, its sweet, banana-like flavor makes it a popular ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes.

Jackfruit is incredibly versatile. Its flesh can be eaten raw, cooked, or even used as a meat substitute in vegan dishes. It’s rich in vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber. Interestingly, the seeds are also edible and can be roasted or boiled for a nutritious snack.

So, while jackfruit’s smell might make you hesitate, its versatility and nutritional benefits make it worth a try. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter!

• Largest tree-borne fruit, weighing up to 80 pounds.
• Rich in vitamins A and C, and dietary fiber.
• Used as a meat substitute in vegan cuisine.

Cempedak: Durian’s Cousin

Cempedak is often compared to durian, and not just because of its strong smell. This tropical fruit, native to Southeast Asia, has a pungent aroma that can be described as a mix of durian and jackfruit. Its flesh is sweet and creamy, with a flavor that some say is even better than durian.

Like durian, cempedak is rich in nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. It’s also used in traditional medicine for its supposed health benefits. The fruit can be eaten fresh, fried, or even made into a dessert. Despite its smell, cempedak is a beloved fruit in many Southeast Asian countries.

If you’re a fan of durian, you’ll likely enjoy cempedak. Just be prepared for the smell!

• Similar smell to durian, but slightly milder.
• Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
• Used in traditional medicine for various health benefits.

Marang: The Aromatic Delight

Marang, also known as tarap, is another tropical fruit with a strong aroma. Native to Borneo and the Philippines, marang emits a sweet, fruity smell that can be overpowering in large quantities. Its flesh is soft and creamy, with a flavor that’s often compared to a mix of banana, pineapple, and jackfruit.

Marang is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber. It’s typically eaten fresh, but can also be used in desserts and other dishes. The seeds are also edible and can be roasted or boiled. Despite its strong smell, marang is a popular fruit in its native regions.

If you can handle the smell, marang is a delicious and nutritious fruit worth trying. Just be sure to eat it fresh, as it spoils quickly.

• Strong, sweet aroma that’s fruity and overpowering.
• Rich in vitamins A and C, and dietary fiber.
• Popular in Borneo and the Philippines for its unique flavor.

So, there you have it. The world of stinky fruits is more fascinating than you might have thought. These fruits may assault your senses with their powerful odors, but they also offer unique flavors and impressive health benefits. Whether you’re a daring foodie or just curious, these fruits are worth a try. Just remember to keep some air freshener handy!

Next time you’re in a market in Southeast Asia or a specialty store, don’t shy away from these aromatic oddities. Who knows, you might just find your new favorite fruit hiding behind that pungent smell.

References

1. BBC: The World’s Smelliest Fruit
2. I tried durian, the world’s stinkiest fruit. Here’s my review (hold your …