Heat an electric skillet or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, stirring to crumble, until browned, about 3 minutes. Add the butter, and when melted, add the onions, bell peppers, 1 teaspoon of the Essence, the hot sauce, salt, and pepper, and cook, stirring, until soft, about 4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the potatoes (and additional butter if needed to prevent sticking), and cook, stirring, until lightly browned, about 4 minutes. Add the parsley and chicken stock, stir well, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer until the potatoes are soft and stock is absorbed, about 10 minutes.

With a spoon, make 4 indentations in the mixture, and break an egg into each. Cover and cook until the eggs are set, about 4 minutes. Sprinkle the eggs with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of Essence and the cheese. Serve immediately with hot toast or tortillas.

Combine all ingredients thoroughly and store in an airtight jar or container.

Yield: about 2/3 cup

Recipe from New New Orleans Cooking, by Emeril Lagasse and Jessie Tirsch. Published by William and Morrow, 1993.