In the mid-twentieth century, most of the bananas coming into the United States from Central and South America came in through the port of New Orleans. Owen Brennan, the original patriarch of the Brennan empire, asked his chef at the time, Paul Blangé, to create some dishes using bananas. The year was 1951, and Blangé came up with a dessert that has become a signature of this city, Bananas Foster. Owen Brennan served on the New Orleans Crime Commission with a very regular customer and an even better friend, Richard Foster of Foster Awning Company who was chairman of the crime commission. The legendary dish is named for him. Blangé’s creation became so popular that by the end of the twentieth century, some 40,000 pounds of bananas were flamed each year at Brennan’s alone.
The new 21st century Brennan’s in the Ralph Brennan Restaurant Group has a fun proposal in the spirit of enjoying lockdown time at home. They have come up with a great idea for you to make this quintessentially New Orleans dessert, and a competition for prizes.
To enter the contest, which is open until April 30th, just follow @brennansnola on Instagram, post a photo of your version of their Bananas Foster with the hashtag #bananasforbrennans, and tag @brennansnola in the post. Check their Instagram for the full details and an important note from the restaurant- "Flambé at your own risk. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby for precautionary measures."
Here’s the recipe, from Brennan's Instagram:
