I tried my hand at making gruel this week, and I must admit, I was a bit skeptical. I found myself stirring Robinson's patent groats into boiling water, and I was surprised by how quickly it all came together. The most delightful part was the aroma that filled my kitchen when I added a small piece of lemon peel—it was surprisingly invigorating. I've been a fan of lemon zest in my morning tea for ages, but I've never considered adding it to a savoury dish. This recipe is perfect for the weeknight cook who's looking to make something warm and comforting in a pinch. I skipped the wine and spirits, but the nutmeg and lemon peel added a nice depth of flavor. The best part? It took me less than 10 minutes to prepare. I poured it into a mug and sipped it while I chopped vegetables for the rest of the meal. It's not a dish I'll make every night, but it's a great go-to for when I need something quick and soothing.