Ingredients

• 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
• Accompaniment: vanilla ice cream

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a 10-inch heavy skillet over moderately high heat until foam subsides, then sauté 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 sauté remaining bananas in same manner, transferring to 2 more bowls.
2. 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.
3. Spoon sauce over bananas and ice cream.