### Detailed Steps for Making a Nutritious Bean Vegetable Medley with Beans and Grains
#### Ingredients:
- **1 cup red kidney beans**, rinsed and drained
- **1 cup brown rice**
- **1 cup yellow split peas** (or any other preferred bean variety)
- **2 carrots**, peeled and chopped
- **2 stalks celery**, sliced
- **1 bell pepper**, diced
- **1 small onion**, finely chopped
- **3 cloves garlic**, minced
- **1 can (400 ml) of tomatoes**
- **1 teaspoon dried thyme**
- **Salt and pepper** to taste
- **Olive oil or any vegetable oil** for sautéing
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
#### Preparation Steps:
1. **Cook the Grains:**
- Rinse 1 cup of brown rice under cold water.
- In a medium pot, combine the rinsed brown rice with 2 cups of water and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes or until the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit for another 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
2. **Prepare the Beans:**
- Rinse 1 cup of red kidney beans under cold water.
- In a separate pot, cover the beans with fresh water by about an inch. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and let them simmer for about 30 minutes or until they're tender but still hold their shape.
3. **Cook the Split Peas:**
- Rinse 1 cup of yellow split peas in cold water.
- In another pot, cover the split peas with fresh water by a few inches. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for about 20-30 minutes or until soft.
4. **Sauté Aromatics:**
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 small chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute to infuse the flavor without browning it.
5. **Add Vegetables:**
- Add the sliced carrots, celery, diced bell pepper, and dried thyme to the skillet.
- Stir well and sauté for about 7-10 minutes or until vegetables start to soften but still retain some crunch.
6. **Combine All Ingredients:**
- Drain and add the cooked brown rice, red kidney beans, and split peas to the skillet.
- Pour in a can of tomatoes (with its juice) over the grains and beans.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
7. **Simmer:**
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
8. **Serve:**
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve hot as a side dish or main course alongside grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables.
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By following these detailed steps, you can create a delicious and nutritious bean vegetable medley that's both satisfying and packed with flavor. Enjoy your meal!