Fresh whole Monthong durian, known as the "golden pillow" variety, is Thailand's most popular durian export. This tropical fruit is famous for being the "king of fruits" with its distinctive spiky green shell and creamy, custard-like yellow pods inside. Each fruit weighs approximately 5 pounds and comes in multi-layered, air-tight packaging to contain its strong aroma.

Monthong durian is prized for its rich, sweet, and pillowy texture with mild pungency compared to other durian varieties. The flavor profile is complex and fruity with notes of vanilla and caramel. The edible portion consists of large yellow fleshy pods that contain seeds, which can also be roasted or boiled. This variety is grown in tropical rainforests and arrives ready to eat.

The fruit's distinctive smell comes from a rare amino acid called ethionine, which is released as the fruit ripens. While the aroma is intensely pungent, durian enthusiasts consider the creamy, sweet taste well worth experiencing. This seasonal delicacy is typically enjoyed fresh, with sticky rice, or incorporated into desserts and ice cream.