Add water to a large saucepan and place it over HIGH heat. Once the water comes to a boil, add the rice, reduce heat to LOW, cover the pan and let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the water has been absorbed and the rice is tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

While the rice is cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a Dutch oven over MEDIUM heat. Add the sausage, and cook, stirring frequently, until sausage is lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Add additional oil to the pot, if needed, and add the onion, bell pepper and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 2 minutes and then add the garlic. Cook, stirring for 1 minute, or until the veggies are tender and then stir in the tomato sauce, Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, red beans, chicken broth, hot sauce, bay leaves, sausage, and freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Increase the heat under the pot and bring the mixture to a boil, cover, reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Uncover and stir the mixture then continue to simmer, uncovered, an additional 10 minutes, or until slightly thickened.

Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. It will thicken further as it rests.

Serve with rice garnished with parsley, if desired, with extra hot sauce on the side.