Franco Nube 
Mayroon na tayong tinapay at keso
A staple in Filipino Christmas and New Year celebrations, the table seems incomplete without the red wax-layered ball of cheese known as Queso de Bola. Heavily influenced by Dutch cheese, Edam, which was introduced to Filipino homes by the Dutch East India Company during the colonial period, this culinary delight shows a history as rich as its flavor. Though originally from the Netherlands, Queso de Bola has certainly found its way into the hearts of Filipinos, and earned its spot at the Christmas table.
Traditionally made from cow’s milk, Queso de Bola is later coated with red wax to give it a long shelf life and its signature shiny red look. The province of Bulacan serves as the largest producer of Queso de Bola in the Philippines. Situated in Central Luzon, a region known for dairy products, this province allows for a thriving production of this cheesy treasure.
The shiny red surface of Queso de Bola, and its bright golden core of cheese beautifully complement the Christmas decorations and lights commonly used in Filipino homes during the holiday season. Its radiant red and yellow hues make this ball of cheese stand out from other Christmas dishes, bringing the colors of Christmas to the dining table.
To non-Filipinos, Queso de Bola may simply just be what its name says, a ball of cheese. But to Filipinos, this cheese symbolizes something far greater. When we see the red surface of Queso de Bola glisten, we know that Christmas is within arm’s reach, or it tells of the arrival of a new and better year. This wonder ball of yellow cheese brings people together, allowing us to share it with our loved ones to pair it with crackers, pandesal, bibingka, and many other Pinoy foods and dishes.
Whether you’re a cheese lover or not, chances are you’ve taken a nibble of Queso de Bola. Its distinct taste and aroma are reasons why we simply cannot forget this cheese during Christmas and New Year’s Eve!
