Banana Bliss

Ingredients

1 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground anise seed
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 large bananas
1/2 cup pecans, halves or chopped
1/2 cup water
1/2 pound (2 sticks) unsalted butter
1 cup lightly packed dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 tablespoons banana liqueur
2 tablespoons Irish cream liqueur
1 tablespoon Cognac
1 teaspoon dark sesame oil
Vanilla ice cream

Instructions

Combine the seasoning mix ingredients in a small bowl. Peel the bananas and cut them into diagonal slices about 1/2-inch thick. Set aside. In a small nonstick skillet over medium heat, roast the pecans, stirring constantly, until they begin to darken and give off a rich toasted aroma. Remove from the heat and set aside. In a 10-inch skillet whisk together the water, butter, and sugar. When the butter melts, add the seasoning mix and bring to a boil, whisking frequently. Whisk in the remaining ingredients, then add the reserved bananas and pecans. Combine to cook, stirring gently, for 4 minutes. Remove from the heat and serve warm with vanilla ice cream.