… or rather, another non-recipe. Preparing dessert for dinner parties is my sore weakness. I have no problem throwing six savoury courses together but will gladly take up on anyone’s offer to bring dessert. I claim that baking cramps my style but in truth, working with flour, cream, and sugar in exact measurements frightens me.
When I’m scrambling at the end of a meal without a clue on what to serve for dessert, that’s when my creativity kicks in. I scour the fridge and pantry and pull out anything remotely usable. In this case, a few ripe bananas, some brown sugar, and a carton of ice cream.
(See other last minute dessert ideas: honey roasted figs and quick phyllo and parfait desserts).
Simply slice the bananas in half lenght-wise. Sprinkle on brown sugar and brûlée with a propane torch. In other words, heat the sugar until it becomes bubbly and golden brown. Once it’s cooled, the sugar will form a glass-like surface on the banana.
Alternately, broil the bananas under the broiler… and your watchful eye. Hot sugar can smoke and char if you turn your back for a split second.
Place two halves on each guests’ plate, top with a scoop or two of ice cream, drizzle or sprinkle on your favourite condiments, and serve warm. Watch your guests have fun cracking through the brûlée surface and spooning out the warm banana from it’s skin.
Another satisfying last minute dessert, done.
Food writer and