Bananas Foster

Here is my version of a classic desert.  Bananas Fosters originated in New Orleans in the early 1950's.  I first had it many years ago at a friends wedding in Boston.  The wedding was held in the restaurant above the actual Cheers bar (based on the TV show).  Sadly, Cheers didn't look quite like I expected it to - Sam Malone did not greet me at the door, nor did I see Norm sitting at the end of the bar. Too bad : (  

The wedding however, was something to be remembered.  Everything about it was fabulous, including this scrumptious desert.  Today, you will pay a pretty penny for it in high end restaurants.  Funny thing is, it's made with ingredients that we all have on hand.  Go figure.  Here's all you need to make it. 

1/4 cup butter
2/3 cup brown sugar
3 1/2 tablespoons rum ( I recommend Myers dark rum)
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
3 large bananas, peeled and sliced lengthwise & crosswise
1 pint vanilla ice cream

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter.  Stir in sugar, rum, vanilla, and cinnamon. When mixture bubbles, place bananas in the pan.

Cook until bananas are hot, about 2 minutes.  Serve immediately over vanilla ice cream.  This recipe makes 4 servings. 

The contrast of the warm sauce and cold ice cream are what makes this dish.  It truly tastes like you put way more effort into it that you actually did.  Wear your prettiest apron and bring the pan to the table.  Channel your inner Julia Child and spoon over the ice cream as your guests oooh and aaah.  Only you will know the real secret. Life's simple pleasures are sometimes found right in our own kitchen. 

Bon Appetite!

ps...K&L this was for you : )