1. If soaking: Measure 4 cups of water and heat to lukewarm (I microwave on high 3-4 minutes; exact temperature is not critical). Add 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar to the warm water. Combine the grains with the water/vinegar in a bowl that holds at least 5 cups (I use my 8-cup Pyrex measuring cup), cover, and leave in a warm (or at least room temperature) location for 12-24 hours. In the winter when room temperature is lower, I often will turn the oven on for a few minutes to warm up, then turn the oven off, put the soaking grains in the oven, and close the door.
2. Chop and measure all veggies. Place in a 9" x 13" (3 quart) or larger baking dish. Add the garlic salt/garlic powder and parsley. Rinse and drain black beans and add to casserole dish. If prepping in advance, cover and put in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
3. When ready to cook: Preheat the oven to 350° Fahrenheit (177° Celsius).
4. If soaking grains, drain and rinse the grains then add to the casserole dish. (Just measure the grains and add to the casserole dish if you're not soaking the grains.)
5. If grains were soaked, add 1/2 cup water or broth to the casserole dish. (If grains were not soaked, add 2 cups water or broth to the casserole dish.) Mix all the ingredients together. Cover with aluminum foil.
6. Place the covered casserole dish in the preheated oven and cook for about 1 hour, stirring once about halfway through.
7. Uncover and top with grated cheese or nutritional yeast. If topping with cheese, place back in the oven for about 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
8. Allow to cool at least 10 minutes before serving. This pairs great with fresh bread!