D197 Musang King (Mau Shan Wang)
Creamy, thick, buttery Very High PopularityAlso known as Raja Kunyit or Mao Shan Wang, this premium variety offers deep egg-yellow flesh with the perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness. Its texture is described as 'liam chooi' in Hokkien, meaning smooth, creamy and sticky-dry. The durian has a distinctive five-pointed star pattern at the base. Considered the king of durians, Musang King offers a perfect balance of sweet and bitter notes with a creamy texture that melts in your mouth. Its distinct star-shaped pattern at the base and deep yellow-gold flesh make it easily recognizable.
Price Range
RM40 - RM80 per kg
Season
June - August, December - January
Taste
Rich with perfect balance of bitter and sweet flavors
Aroma
Strong but pleasant
Where to Find
Available at most premium durian stalls in George Town, especially along Jalan Macalister, farms in Balik Pulau and Teluk Bahang areas
Flavor Profile
Characteristics
Inspect the Durian and Confirm Prices
Always begin by examining the displayed durians. If many appear subpar, be more caution and it's wise to look elsewhere.
Durian prices are highly variable, much like currency exchange rates. What you paid previously, even recently, might not apply today or tomorrow. Therefore, always confirm the price, even if a tag is visible, to avoid surprises after packing (e.g., being told the displayed price was for a different durian).
And given the highly personal nature of taste – everyone experiences flavors like sweetness and bitterness uniquely – it's best to trust your own palate by requesting a tasting from the seller.
Search Other Durian Varieties
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D105 Ganja
Thick flesh and small seed. Must try for those who love sweet and creamy type durians. The name 'Ganja' is a playful reference to its strong aroma. This durian is known for its intense flavor and creamy texture, making it a favorite among durian enthusiasts. If you are lucky, you might get one that gives you a 'slight numbness' on the tongue.
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D222 YU'MI
The D222 YU'MI is often appreciated for its uniqueness and quality among those who seek premium durian varieties, although it may not be as widely recognized as the Musang King (D197). It appeals particularly to connoisseurs due to its distinctive taste and texture.
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D214 TUPAI 226 (Tupai King)
Durian D214, or Tupai King, it tastes really special and different from other durians. Everyone's buzzing about how it's grown and how popular it's going to be. If you love durians, especially if you're in Penang, you just have to try it! As more Tupai King durians become available, it could totally change which durians are considered the best. So, keep an eye out for this amazing new variety!
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