Classic Bananas Foster

Bananas Foster is an old-school dessert that looks and tastes significantly more complicated than it is, making it an ideal meal-ender when you’re strapped for time but still want to show off. The original bananas Foster recipe was invented for Owen Brennan's restaurant, Vieux Carré, in the 1950s. This New Orleans classic consists of caramelized bananas and a pyrotechnic rum sauce that delivers all the tableside drama.

If you’re hesitant about tackling a flambéed dish at home, that’s understandable! But with a few tablespoons of rum contained in a skillet (off the heat) and a long-reach lighter or long match to keep you away from the flames, you’ll get all of the wow factor and flavor with none of the danger. Slightly underripe bananas work well here, as they soften nicely in the caramel sauce but maintain their shape while cooking. While the toasted pecans aren’t traditional, they add delightful crunch.

Vanilla ice cream is the classic accompaniment, but you could also spoon the saucy mix over waffles, crepes, French toast, or even toasted slices of banana bread.