A friend who works as a nurse passed along this beloved recipe that always lifted my spirits, and now I'm passing it on to you.

For a richer flavor, substitute chicken or vegetable broth for water. You can also add a pinch of cumin or coriander for additional depth. For a nutty crunch, toss in some toasted almonds or cashews before serving. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cooking liquid.