Bananas Foster .....

Bananas Foster

Barbara's Birthday Dessert

In 1973 I spent three weeks in Dallas with my sister whose husband was very ill.  She took me downtown for Brunch one day before going to the hospital. She chose Brennan's Restaurant. The original Brennan's is in New Orleans. We ordered Bananas Foster for dessert which was prepared table side with the flambe and all of the drama which was quite impressive. This is a quick dessert and has been a long time favorite. It can be made a little ahead and just reheated over low heat before serving.

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Ingredients:

6 Tablespoons unsalted butter

3/4 cup brown sugar

3/4 teaspoon cinnamon

4 ripe but still firm bananas, peeled, halved crosswise and then lengthwise (into quarters)

1/4 cup banana liqueur

Vanilla ice cream for serving

Directions:

In a large saute pan over medium heat, combine the butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Cook, stirring occasionally until the butter melts and the sugar is dissolved. Add the banana slices and cook, turning once, until just tender, 1 to 2 minutes per side.

Turn off flame or remove from heat, then add the banana liqueur the banana mixture. Using a long match or lighter, light the alcohol by placing the flame just inside the outer edge of the pan. Stand as far back as possible, keeping your face and hands away from the pan. The flame will be a faint blue and should extinguish in 5 to 10 seconds. Holding the pan handle with an oven mitt, gently shake the pan from side to side to coat the bananas with the sauce.

Scoop vanilla ice cream into individual bowls. Spoon some of the bananas and sauce over the ice cream, dividing evenly. Serve immediately. Serves 4 to 6

Note: I usually just add the liqueur for flavor depth and serve.