Fried Banana Split - chocolate

Method

• For the chocolate sauce: Combine the chocolate and 1/4 cup water in a heavy small saucepan.
• Stir over medium-low heat until the sauce is melted and smooth.
• Remove from the heat.
• Stir in small pinch cayenne pepper.
• Set aside.
• For the bananas: Place the brown sugar in a pie dish or on a plate.
• Toss the bananas in the brown sugar until nicely coated.
• Melt the butter in a heavy large skillet over medium-high heat until the butter becomes golden brown.
• Add the bananas to the hot pan cut-side down.
• Turn the bananas over as soon as they are golden brown and the sugar forms a crunchy coat on the bananas, about 30 seconds per side (do not allow bananas to become soft and mushy).
• Divide the bananas between 2 shallow bowls or plates.
• Spoon the chocolate sauce over the bananas.
• Sprinkle with the toasted almonds, and serve immediately.
• Cook's Notes: To toast the almonds, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Bake in a preheated 350 degrees F oven for 6 to 8 minutes until lightly toasted.
• Cool completely before using.
• An alternate way to melt the chocolate is to combine the chocolate and water in a small metal bowl over a small saucepan of simmering water, and stir the chocolate mixture until melted and smooth.
• Remove the bowl from over the water and set aside.