How to open durian shells most conveniently

The most convenient way to open durian shells is to use a knife to pry open along the grain of the shell, while also using hand pressure assistance. There are mainly five methods: cutting edge prying method, back tapping method, hand opening method, freezing cracking method, and microwave softening method.

1. Tip prying method

Choose a fruit knife or a specialized durian knife, insert the tip of the knife from the five pointed star pattern at the bottom of the durian, and slowly cut along the natural crack. Wear thick gloves to prevent stabbing during operation, and maintain a 30 degree angle between the blade and the shell surface to save effort. The shell seams of mature durian usually have obvious indentations, and these parts can be prioritized for cutting.

2. Knife back tapping method

Use a Chinese kitchen knife to continuously tap along the raised edge of the durian shell with a force that can produce slight cracks. The vibration generated by tapping will separate the flesh from the inner shell, making it easier to break it by hand later. This method is suitable for immature thick shelled durian, and attention should be paid to fixing the durian to prevent rolling when tapping.

3. Hand to Hand Splitting Method

Wear stab resistant gloves with both hands, place the thumb against the depression at the bottom of the durian, and use the remaining four fingers to grip the top edges while exerting force. The success rate of selecting mature durians that have already naturally cracked is higher, and a clear sound of fiber breakage can be heard when opened. This method is more effective for durian varieties with pointed fruit stalks.

4. Freeze cracking method

Place the entire durian in the freezer compartment of the refrigerator for 2 hours and remove it. Low temperature will cause the moisture inside the shell to crystallize and expand, resulting in cracks. At this point, gently pry with the tip of the knife to completely separate the shell petals, making it easier for the frozen fruit pulp to remain intact. This method is particularly suitable for situations where the integrity of the fruit pulp needs to be preserved.

5. Microwave softening method

Wrap durian with a wet towel and place it in the microwave. Heat it on medium heat for 30 seconds to soften the fibers inside the shell. After heating, the shell will slightly retract. Use a knife to cut through the gap generated by heating. Attention should be paid to the fact that heating for too long can lead to overripe fruit pulp. It is advisable to heat for no more than 1 minute each time.

When handling fresh durians, it is recommended to wear kitchen specific cut resistant gloves and choose mature fruits with natural cracks at the bottom for easier processing. If the outer shell of durian is too hard, it can be placed in a cool place for 1-2 days and wait for it to ripen. The opened fruit pulp should be consumed as soon as possible or sealed and refrigerated to avoid storage at room temperature for more than 4 hours. For unfinished durian meat, the core can be removed and stored in a fresh-keeping box for freezing. Even after thawing, it is still suitable for making desserts or milkshakes. Pay attention to keeping the operating table stable during the shell opening process to prevent accidental injuries caused by tool slippage.