Gruels are a type of thin, liquid-based porridge that are typically made from grains such as rice, oats, or barley. While the term 'gruel' is commonly used to describe this type of dish, there are a number of synonyms that can be used to describe similar foods. These include porridge, mush, and hot cereal. Depending on the region and cultural context, there may be other terms used to describe gruels, such as congee in Southeast Asia or cream of wheat in North America. Regardless of the name, gruels provide a nutritious and warming meal that can be enjoyed on its own or served as a side dish.