Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Start to Finish Time: 30 minutes
Bananas Foster: A Classic New Orleans Delight
A Sweet History
Bananas Foster, created by Paul Blangé in 1951 at Brennan’s in New Orleans, is a rich, flambéed dessert that has become a cherished classic. The dish was born out of necessity when Chef Blangé was challenged to create a recipe using bananas, an ingredient that was abundantly available. With its dramatic presentation and irresistible flavors, Bananas Foster quickly became a signature dish at Brennan’s, delighting both locals and tourists alike. While traditional restaurant preparations involve an impressive flambé, this homemade version is just as decadent without the need for open flames.
A Simple Yet Decadent Dessert
Despite its gourmet reputation, Bananas Foster is surprisingly simple to make. The combination of butter, dark brown sugar, cinnamon, and spiced rum creates a luxurious caramelized sauce that coats the bananas in pure indulgence. Adding toasted pecans brings a delightful crunch, while cane syrup (or a molasses-infused maple syrup substitute) enhances the depth of flavor. A touch of kosher salt balances the sweetness, ensuring a perfectly nuanced taste.
Perfectly Ripe Bananas for the Best Texture
Choosing the right bananas is key to achieving the ideal texture. Slightly ripe bananas work best, as they hold their shape while absorbing the rich sauce. When cooked, they become tender but not mushy, making each bite a luscious experience.
The Ultimate Ice Cream Pairing
The warm, buttery bananas are traditionally served over a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of hot and cold enhances the flavors, allowing the sauce to melt into the ice cream, creating a heavenly dessert that is both satisfying and sophisticated.
An Impressive Dessert for Any Occasion
Bananas Foster is perfect for dinner parties or a cozy night in. While the original tableside flambé is a spectacle to behold, this simplified method still delivers the signature richness and complexity. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a classic indulgence, this New Orleans favorite is guaranteed to satisfy.
Bringing a Taste of New Orleans Home
Recreating Bananas Foster at home is a delightful way to bring a touch of Crescent City magic to your kitchen. The caramelized sauce, spiced rum aroma, and creamy vanilla ice cream create a dessert experience that feels both elegant and comforting. Enjoy this timeless treat and savor a taste of New Orleans tradition with every bite.
Ingredients:
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup dark brown sugar, firmly packed
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/3 cup spiced dark rum
1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted
1/4 cup cane syrup (SUBSTITUTE: a mix 1 teaspoon mollases to 1/4 cup of maple syrup)
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
4 medium bananas, halved lengthwise (ripe)
vanilla ice cream, to serve
Instructions:
In a 12 -inch cast-iron skillet, melt butter over low heat.
Add brown sugar and cinnamon; cook, stirring constantly, until sugar is dissolved, 3 to 4 minutes.
Increase heat to medium.
Add rum; cook, stirring frequently, for 3 minutes.
Stir in pecans, cane syrup, and salt; cook for 1 minute.
Add bananas; cook for 2 minutes, gently turning bananas to coat.
Serve immediately with ice cream
Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 444 Calories; 22g Fat (45.7% calories from fat); 3g Protein; 55g Carbohydrate; 5g Dietary Fiber; 30mg Cholesterol; 160mg Sodium; 40g Total Sugars; 0mcg Vitamin D; 36mg Calcium; 1mg Iron; 540mg Potassium; 72mg Phosphorus. Exchanges: .