Wash, rinse and soak rice for 15~20 minutes. Heat 2tbsp oil in a sauté pan, add onions, peppers, thyme, oregano and garlic. Once the onions are lightly browned, add the tomato paste and mix well. Cook for 1~2 minutes. Next add the kidney beans and cook for 2 minutes. Add the rice along with salt, pepper and 2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil, lower the heat to simmer and cook covered for 15~20 minutes or until the rice is cooked through. Let sit for 5~10 minutes before serving.