Sauteed Bananas with Praline Sauce

Sauteed Bananas with Praline Sauce

1/2 stick (1/4 cup) unsalted butter
4 bananas, halved lengthwise, then crosswise
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
Pinch of ground cardamom
3/4 teaspoon fresh lime juice
vanilla ice cream

Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a 10-inch heavy skillet over moderately
high heat until foam subsides, then saute half of bananas, cut sides
down first, turning over once, until golden, 1 1/2 to 2 minutes total.
Transfer with a slotted spatula to 2 dessert bowls. Heat 1 tablespoon
butter and saute remaining bananas in same manner, transferring to
2 more bowls.

Melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter in skillet over moderate heat,
then add brown sugar, cream, cardamom, and a pinch of salt and simmer,
stirring occasionally, until sauce is slightly thickened, about 2
minutes. Remove from heat and stir in lime juice. Spoon sauce over
bananas and ice cream.