Pan Fried Bananas
Side
Ingredients
2 bananas or plantains not-too-ripe
1/2 cup olive oil
Description
Much like Jambalaya, this Nouveau Cajun dish has a Carribean influence. Deep fried plantains are a Carribean favorite but since bananas are readily available around SW Louisiana, it made sense to use them in place of delicious plantains. Even though no sugar is added, this dish is a naturally sweet treat.
It is better to use bananas that aren't too ripe. Overly ripe bananas carmelize too much and become too mushy.
Directions
Turn stove on high and pour the olive oil into a skillet. Heat for 2 minutes.
While the oil is heating, cut each banana into 6 pieces by first slicing the banana in half length-wise then continuing to slice.
Place the bananas in the skillet and fry until golden brown, making sure to flip the bananas at least once. This usually takes about 5 minutes.
ALTERNATE VERSION:
In a Teflon coated skillet, add 1 tablespoon Smart Balance Omega Plus butter spread.
Peel bananas. Slice lengthwise, then cross-cut in half.
Heat the butter until the butter bubbles. Add the banana slices and fry them on both sides over medium heat until they are golden brown and soft; remove from pan.
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon brown sugar in the butter and stir until it dissolves and turns syrupy.
Pour over bananas.
Notes
Submitted by Chrissy LeMaire, Kaplan, LA