When you feel bad, nothing helps give you that cozy internal hug like comfort foods. In America, we often find things like mac n’ cheese, mashed potatoes and gravy, or Mom’s meatloaf to be of intensive comfort.

But if we look more closely at our country, we’ve been graced with people from all over who have a different take on what comfort food is. And what’s more, many of us have found their foods comforting as well. If you’ve ever called your neighborhood Chinese restaurant in tears over a bad breakup and asked how soon they could get your wonton soup and mu shu pork to you, then you know what we mean.

Here are some foods from around the world that bring comfort.

Thailand – Green Curry

Green curry is very popular in central Thailand. It’s delicious and soothing, if you like spicy foods. If you’re game to try it, ask for it at your local Thai restaurant. You can ask them to make it milder if you’d prefer. They’re always happy to adjust the spiciness to your liking.

Germany – Sausages and Sauerkraut

The Germans prize their sausages about just about anything else. If you love rich, fatty meats, a plate of beer-soaked sausages served with fresh sauerkraut might be all you need to turn your frown upside down.

Spain – Paella

Spain’s national dish is one that every Spaniard takes great comfort with. It’s a versatile rice dish, and while it sounds simple, is very complex. You can to use a special pan to make it just right. It starts with browning the meats and veggies and then cooking the rice in the same pan. Some varieties are made simply with seafood, but no matter which one you get, it is pure Spanish comfort food.

Japan – Okonomiyaki

It’s a savory pancake that can come in many different flavors. Generally, the Japanese add whatever is on hand, but that mish-mash of ingredients is pure heaven. Thin slices of pork belly, octopus, scallions, mochi, or even cheese can be used.

China – Fried Rice

For the Chinese, fried rice is like their mac n’ cheese. It’s made with leftover rice from last night’s dinner. You add egg, bits of meat, and vegetables for a quick and easy, not to mention incredibly comforting, taste.

Cuba – Chicken and Rice

Called arroz con pollo, this simple dish is one that is served in every Cuban home. Tender chunks of juicy chicken paired with yellow rice is one of the most heavenly things to come from the island country. It’s almost always served with a mound of black beans, another seductively soothing comfort food on its own.

Italy – Pasta In America, we make our pastas out of boxes and slather it in sauces. But for the Italians, the focus is on the quality of the pasta and keeping the sauce a very simple complement. If you want to make pasta like a true Italian, go for quality and pick up fresh noodles (or even make them yourself). Then keep the sauce very simple, only adding a very little bit to get the true Italian effect.