No matter what part of the world you come from, comfort foods are popular in every culture. There is something satisfying and relieving about digging into your favorite food, whether it’s sweet, salty, greasy or just plain good. When we eat foods we like, our brain actually releases endorphins into our body, and this is especially true with quintessential comfort foods. This is why people get a next level boost when they have their favorite comfort food. If you want to discover other cultures’ version of comfort foods, check out these 11 comfort foods from around the world.
French Onion Soup (France)
Although this is a dish that many Americans love, it is the original comfort food of France. It is rich and velvety, loaded with onions and cheese. Try this hearty soup with a crispy piece of bread.
Matso Ball Soup (Israel)
Often eaten during Passover, Israeli comfort food Matso soup features matzo balls, which are dumplings made with matzo meal and eggs, in a flavorful, rich broth.
Poutine (Canada)
Originating from Montreal, this Canadian dish is very popular, and is sometimes referred to informally as “Canadian salad.” It contains crispy fries covered in cheese curds and gravy.
Moussaka (Greece)
Thought of as Greece’s take on lasagna, this baked goodness includes potatoes, ground meat, fried eggplant and tons of cheese. It is frequently topped with cream sauces, like béchamel, which is a cheesy, white sauce.
Fish and Chips (Great Britain)
Fish and Chips are a well-known staple of British culture, with people all over understanding why this greasy, crispy dish is Great Britain’s favorite comfort food. It features crispy, battered fish and fries.
Bratwurst (Germany)
A longstanding tradition in German culture, this dish is already known and enjoyed in many other parts of the world. Bratwursts are thick sausages that are paired with sauerkraut, and many times, an ice, cold beer.
Pierogi (Poland)
Poland’s favorite comfort food comes with delicious boiled dumplings filled with potatoes and cheese, and usually topped with caramelized onions and a big dollop of sour cream.
Sausage Rolls (Australia)
An upgraded twist on pigs-in-a-blanket, Australia’s favorite comfort food combines pieces of juicy minced pork wrapped in savory puff pastry. They can be eaten literally at any time of the day.
Congee (China)
Congee is one of the most popular comfort foods in East Asia, and consists of several different cooked grains and rice that congeal into a delicious kind of porridge. It is frequently topped with garnish or other flavorful ingredients.
Grilled Cheese (America)
America is known for its many comfort foods, but none top the iconic grilled cheese. It is a glorified cheese sandwich fried in a skillet. It can be dressed up by using different cheeses and breads, and is paired frequently with tomato soup.
Äggakaka (Sweden)
Äggakaka, which means “egg cake” in Swedish, is a thick, fluffier version of a pancake. Often served right in the skillet, Äggakaka is often cut into wedges and served topped with bacon and lingonberries.