Natchitoches Meat Pie Filling

1 teaspoon oil
1 pound ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork
1 onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
1/2 cup chopped celery
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon Essence
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions

In a large skillet heat oil and cook beef and pork, stirring occasionally, until browned, about 5 to 6 minutes. Add the onions, bell peppers, celery, salt, Essence, cayenne, and black pepper. Cook, stirring often, until the vegetables are wilted, about 10 to 12 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the green onions. Mix well.

Recipe courtesy Emeril Lagasse, 2001. From: Food Network [archive.org]