1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Whole-Grain Base (The Foundation):
1 cup steel-cut oats, barley, or farro
3 cups water or broth
½ teaspoon salt
Optional Reinforcements (Upgrades):
Kale or spinach
Lentils for extra protein
Lean beef or chicken