Tom Parker Bowles, a British food writer and royal commentator, has recounted an entertaining story centered around a classic Royal Family dessert, offering a glimpse into both history and delicious simplicity. The 51-year-old shared this anecdote involving the late Queen Elizabeth II and the Queen Mother during a lunch at Clarence House, where a dessert dilemma sparked an inspired creation.
During the meal, the beloved royal chef Alma McKee had served a splendid meat course but suddenly realized there was no dessert prepared. In a moment of culinary improvisation, she spotted a bunch of bananas and quickly turned these humble fruits into an elegant treat named ‘Bananes au Caramel.’
According to Tom’s book, Cooking & The Crown, the recipe requires just a few simple ingredients: bananas, caster sugar, butter, and double cream. The method is straightforward yet yields a delightfully indulgent dessert. First, slice the bananas and sprinkle with about two tablespoons of caster sugar. Next, sauté the slices gently in butter over medium heat until they acquire a rich caramel color. Let the bananas rest briefly before adding around 100ml of double cream.
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To serve, the caramelized bananas are placed into sundae glasses and chilled in the refrigerator. For an extra touch, a caramel drizzle made from hardened syrup shards can be sprinkled on top just before serving, adding texture and sweetness.
Not only is this dessert a royal favorite, but bananas themselves are celebrated for their health benefits. They are a rich source of potassium—a mineral known for helping to regulate blood pressure. With over four million adults in England estimated to have undiagnosed hypertension, incorporating potassium-rich foods like bananas could support heart health and reduce risks associated with high blood pressure, including heart attacks and strokes.
Nutritional experts highlight that a medium banana supplies approximately 10% of the daily recommended value (DV) of potassium and about 8% of the DV for magnesium, both vital for cardiovascular well-being.
Tom Parker Bowles’ Cooking & The Crown showcases over 100 recipes spanning the reigns of British monarchs from Queen Victoria to King Charles III. The collection includes lavish royal favorites as well as simple, approachable dishes perfect for everyday cooking.