Coffee Bananas Foster Recipe

Here is an interesting take on a traditional dessert, easier – since there is nothing to flambe – and quite tasty with the addition of the brewed coffee. You have probably noticed that most times when you read a recipe that includes bananas, it specifies ripe bananas; that is certainly true if you are baking with them Here it is the precise opposite: we start with firm bananas because we want them to stay firm once they have had their little flash in the pan. So do make sure there is a bit of green on the peel and that the bananas are not quite ripe. The bananas are quickly fried in butter, then brown sugar, coffee, and rum are added and reduced to a sauce. Bananas, sauce, and ice cream are then plated up together. Timing is everything here, so read the recipe through before you begin.

• Meal Type: Dessert
• Ethnicity: American
• Holiday Category: N/A
• Preparation Time: 15-30 minutes

Ingredients

• 3 large, firm, under-ripe bananas, peeled
• 3 tablespoons butter, salted or unsalted
• 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
• 2 tablespoons rum, preferably dark
• Vanilla or coffee ice cream, for garnish

Directions

1. 1. Cut the bananas in half, crosswise. Cut each half in half lengthwise and carefully set the pieces aside on a large plate. Have 4 dessert plates standing by.
2. 2. Melt the butter in a large skillet, preferably nonstick, over medium heat. Don’t use plain cast iron; it might discolor and alter the flavor of the sauce. Add the banana slices, cut side down, and fry them for about 20 to 30 seconds. Carefully turn the bananas over, then shake the brown sugar over them. Pour the coffee and rum over the bananas. Increase the heat and quickly bring the liquid to a boil, shaking the pan somewhat to “stir.”
3. 3. As soon as the bananas start to lose their firmness, divide the slices evenly between the plates. Put the skillet back on the heat and reduce the syrup until it is syrupy, but don’t overdo it; you want some sauce for the ice cream.
4. 4. Put a scoop or two of ice cream on each plate, them spoon some of the sauce over each portion. Serve at once.
5. Makes 4 servings