“The poets have been mysteriously silent on the subject of cheese.” – Gilbert K. Chesterton (English writer, philosopher, dramatist, and Christian apologist.)
They say history repeats itself. But not for cheese, not for the phenomenal “Edam Cheese.” If classic poets were unable to delve its whole nature – origin, varieties, and importance…not for today. This time, this cheese will be unmasked. Not only its attributes, but also its health benefits – cheese as natural therapies.
But, before unraveling its health benefits, here are some facts about it:
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It is actually named after the town of “Edam” in the province of North Holland, Netherlands.
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Pale yellow is the color of Edam cheese.
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It usually comes in ball shape, but you can also spot loaf shape or squat rounds.
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Early Edam cheese is huge, round, and very strong.
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It can be salty, nutty and sweet, without a cheesy smell.
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Edam cheese is made from either cows or goats milk.
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It is usually coated with a red wax, which is called Paraffin.
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It became the most popular cheese in the world from 14th to 18th century.
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There is a smaller version of it called ‘baby Edam cheese.’
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Filipinos called it Queso de Bola and is known as a popular Christmas dish.
What can we get from Edam Cheese?
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Protein – Cheese are great source of protein, which is known to curb hunger and keep our bodies feeling satisfied after meals or snacks. Hence, more protein consumption means greater chance of losing weight.
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Calcium – We all know that this nutrient has been the paramount factor in keeping our bones and teeth strong. It also guards us against osteoporosis, where cases are rising exponentially according to the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF).
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Zinc and Biotin – Both are known as agents in boosting hair health. In particular, zinc aids growth and repair of tissues, protects skin, and keep nails strong. While biotin helps lowers cholesterol and regulate blood sugar.
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Phosphorus – Just like calcium, this nutrient also helps in the maintenance of bones and teeth. Aside from it, phosphorus also plays in facilitating effective digestion, cell repair, protein formation, alleviating muscle weakness, and boosting brain function.
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Vitamin A – It’s a renowned vitamin that is known for improving our vision. But if you think that’s the only thing vitamin A can do, you probably don’t know that it can also help prevent cancer! Also build immunity in children, helps develop central nervous system, and prevents signs of aging.
Edam Cheese as Christmas Dish in the Philippines
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Filipinos call it ‘Queso de Bola.’ You’re probably wondering why. First thing, Queso de Bola is a Spanish word, not Filipino. Secondly, the country is way too far from Netherlands, right? And to augment your confusion, why this delicacy turned out to be as a sensational Filipino Christmas dish?
Here we go Queso de Bola!
This name started from a Swiss immigrant from the Philippines named Dr. Frederick Zuellig – founder of Zuellig Pharmaceuticals in the early 1900. He called Edam cheese as Queso de Bola, which originated from “Marca Piña Queso de Bola” – a canned cheese ball product salted from Netherlands and delivered to the Philippines.
Due to its festive appearance (circle and covered with red wax), it eventually became a Christmas icon in the Philippines.
Christmas is Fast-approaching!
If you’re in the Philippines, you’ll surely witness how Filipinos celebrate Christmas with Edam cheese. Of course, it would be a great privilege discovering the unique Christmas celebration in the country and at the same time make cheese as natural therapies!
