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 
•     vanilla ice cream

Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a 10-inch heavy skillet over moderately high heat until foam subsides, then saute 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 saute remaining bananas in same manner, transferring to 2 more bowls.

  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. Spoon sauce over bananas and ice cream.