Duku

Fruitlychee-likeSweet

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Duku

Fruitlychee-likeSweet

A fruit with translucent flesh similar to lychee. Highly popular among locals for its elegant sweetness and subtle tang.

A small, light-brown fruit. Peeling the thin skin with your fingers reveals translucent flesh, segmented like a lychee. It boasts an exquisite balance of elegant sweetness and a hint of tartness – juicy yet refreshingly clean on the palate. Its addictive deliciousness makes it one of the most beloved fruits among locals. Be careful not to bite into the seeds, as they are extremely bitter.

Origin and Brand Recognition of Duku

Duku originates from Southeast Asia. In Indonesia, the variety from Palembang in South Sumatra is renowned for its superior quality. 'Duku Palembang' is famous for having thicker flesh, smaller seeds, and, above all, a more intense sweetness compared to duku from other regions. During harvest season, roadside stalls proudly displaying 'Duku Palembang' signs line up, attracting crowds eager for a taste of the seasonal fruit.

Difference from Langsat

Duku has a very similar-looking relative called 'Langsat.' While visually almost identical, there are differences. Generally, duku has thicker skin and releases almost no sticky sap when peeled. Langsat, conversely, has thinner skin and exudes a white, sticky latex that can make your hands slightly tacky. Taste-wise, duku tends to be sweeter, while langsat leans slightly more acidic. Both are delicious, but locals often consider the more refined taste of duku to be the premium choice.

Selection and Storage

To choose delicious duku, look for fruits with bright brownish skin, free from blemishes or dark spots, and slightly firm to the touch with a little give. Overly hard ones are unripe, while overly soft ones are likely overripe. They can be kept at room temperature for several days, but the flavor diminishes quickly, so it's best to eat them soon after purchase. Refrigeration extends shelf life but can cause the skin to darken.