Pan Fried Bananas

These caramelized pan fried bananas are relatively easy to make, but fancy enough to serve at a 5-star restaurant! Serve them up to guests and they'll never guess how quick and simple it was to prepare!

📝 Ingredients

• 3 bananas (firm, not overly ripe)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (or coconut sugar)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or vanilla powder)
• 1 tablespoon vegan margarine
• 1 12.3-ounce container silken tofu (firm)
• 2 tablespoons neutral-flavored oil (sunflower, melted coconut, safflower, etc.)
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 1/2 cups sliced strawberries
• 2 tablespoons crushed or chopped pecans

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1Slice each banana in half lengthwise. Next, slice each banana half in half width-wise so that you end up with twelve banana segments that are each half of their original thickness and length.
2. 2Mix the coconut sugar and vanilla and lightly coat each banana segment evenly with the mixture.
3. 3Heat a very large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the margarine. When the margarine is melted, distribute it evenly over the pan. Place the banana pieces in a single layer on the pan. Allow them to get nicely browned on the bottom (this should take well under 5 minutes). Gently flip them over and brown on the other side. When both sides are gloriously browned and caramelized, turn off the heat.
4. 4In a blender, combine the tofu, maple syrup, oil, cardamom, cinnamon, and salt until very smooth and consistently creamy. Set aside (or refrigerate for up to a week).
5. 5Prepare the strawberries and pecans if desired and set them aside.
6. 6To serve: Place sauce on each plate and top with the pan-fried bananas. Garnish with strawberries and pecans, and enjoy!