Bananas Foster is a classic dessert that originated in New Orleans and has become an iconic symbol of Southern cuisine. This decadent treat features ripe bananas cooked in a buttery, caramelized sauce, typically flavored with rum and a touch of cinnamon. Served warm over vanilla ice cream, Bananas Foster is a dessert that delights the senses with its rich flavors, velvety textures, and a captivating presentation that often includes a dramatic flambé. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Louisiana with this beloved and indulgent dessert.

Bananas Foster was created in the 1950s by Chef Paul Blangé at Brennan’s Restaurant in New Orleans. It was named after Richard Foster, a regular customer and a prominent New Orleans businessman. The dessert was created to showcase the abundance of bananas being imported through the port of New Orleans.

The dish quickly gained popularity for its unique combination of flavors and its dramatic tableside preparation. The dessert became a favorite not only in New Orleans but also worldwide, symbolizing the vibrant and flavorful cuisine of the region.

Bananas Foster is typically prepared by caramelizing bananas in a mixture of butter, brown sugar, and rum. The dish is often flambéed, which involves igniting the sauce to create a dramatic display of flames. The flambé process not only adds a visual spectacle but also helps to enhance the flavors of the caramelized bananas.

PREP/TOTAL TIME: 25 MIN.

MAKES: 4 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 4 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup dark rum
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Vanilla ice cream, for serving
• Cinnamon sticks and mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the brown sugar to the skillet and stir until it dissolves and forms a smooth sauce.
3. Add the sliced bananas to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes, gently tossing them in the sauce until they begin to soften.
4. Add the rum to the skillet and carefully ignite the alcohol using a long match or a lighter. Be cautious when working with an open flame and keep a lid nearby to smother the flames if necessary.
5. Allow the flames to burn out naturally or carefully extinguish them by covering the skillet with a lid.
6. Sprinkle the ground cinnamon over the bananas and sauce, stirring gently to incorporate the flavors.
7. Remove the skillet from heat and let the Bananas Foster cool slightly.
8. To serve, scoop vanilla ice cream into serving bowls or plates.
9. Spoon the warm Bananas Foster over the ice cream, generously drizzling the caramelized sauce.
10. Garnish with cinnamon sticks and mint leaves, if desired.
11. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of warm bananas, sweet caramel, and cold, creamy ice cream.

NOTES:

• While flambéing adds a captivating touch to the preparation, it is optional. If you prefer not to flambé, you can simply cook the bananas in the sauce without igniting the rum.
• Bananas Foster is a legendary dessert that has captured the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts worldwide. Its origins in the vibrant city of New Orleans, combined with the mesmerizing spectacle of flambéing, make it a memorable and irresistible treat. Indulge in the delectable flavors of caramelized bananas, buttery sauce, and a hint of rum, harmoniously paired with cool, creamy vanilla ice cream. Whether enjoyed on a special occasion, as a delightful ending to a meal, or as a sweet escape from the ordinary, Bananas Foster is sure to leave a lasting impression and a desire for another spoonful of this Southern classic.