Philippines Food For Christmas

Robert Peston

2 min read

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26-12-2024

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The Philippines boasts a vibrant and unique Christmas season, extending for several months and culminating in a joyous celebration filled with family, friends, and, of course, incredible food. Christmas in the Philippines isn't complete without a table laden with a variety of dishes, reflecting the country's rich cultural heritage and diverse culinary influences. Let's explore some of the must-have foods that grace Filipino Christmas tables.

The Mainstays:

• Lechon: Arguably the star of any Filipino Christmas feast, lechon is a whole roasted pig, cooked to crispy, juicy perfection. The crackling skin and flavorful meat are a true delicacy, often the centerpiece around which the entire celebration revolves. Its preparation is a time-honored tradition, requiring skill and patience.

• Queso de Bola: This large, Edam-style cheese, imported from Holland, is a beloved Christmas tradition. Its creamy texture and slightly salty flavor make it a perfect accompaniment to various dishes, often enjoyed sliced or paired with crackers. The tradition of cutting the cheese with a special tool adds to the festive atmosphere.

• Hamonado: A sweet and savory glazed ham, hamonado is another essential Christmas dish. The ham is typically cured and then simmered in a sweet and savory glaze, often infused with pineapple juice, brown sugar, and cloves. Its rich flavor profile makes it a popular addition to the holiday spread.

Beyond the Classics:

While lechon, queso de bola, and hamonado are the undisputed kings and queens of the Filipino Christmas table, many other dishes contribute to the festive abundance. These include:

• Pancit: Noodles symbolize longevity and good fortune, making pancit a crucial part of many Filipino celebrations, including Christmas. Different variations exist, but the noodles are typically stir-fried with vegetables and meat.

• Keso de Bola: This is a firm, Edam-style cheese that's a staple of the season. Its unique flavour pairs wonderfully with various Christmas dishes.

• Puto Bumbong: A purple rice cake steamed in bamboo tubes, puto bumbong is a Christmas treat with a unique texture and flavor. It's often served warm with butter and sugar.

• Bibingka: A type of rice cake, bibingka is traditionally cooked in clay ovens and topped with salted eggs and cheese. Its slightly sweet and savory flavor profile adds another dimension to the festive meal.

• Fruit Salad: A refreshing contrast to the richness of other dishes, a fruit salad featuring a variety of local and imported fruits adds color and lightness to the table.

A Celebration of Flavor and Tradition

The Filipino Christmas feast isn't simply a meal; it's a celebration of family, tradition, and the abundance of flavors found in Filipino cuisine. The dishes listed above are just a sampling of the vast array of delicious foods that are prepared and shared during this special time of year. Each dish holds a unique place in the hearts and on the tables of Filipino families, contributing to the unforgettable atmosphere of a Filipino Christmas.