Bananas Foster

2 T butter, unsalted
1/4 C dark brown sugar
zest of one lemon (optional)
1 tsp vanilla
2 T dark rum (optional)
1 banana, sliced thickly 
1 C heavy cream, whipped with 1 tsp vanilla

Gently heat the butter, brown sugar and rum in a large frying pan. 
Cook the mixture over a medium high heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved. 
Lower the heat and add the banana slices. Cook for about a minute or two, ladling the sugar and butter mixture over the bananas. Gently toss the bananas and continue cooking for another minute, taking care to not overcook them. 
Serving suggestions:
1. Divide over two slices French toast and serve with a generous dollop of whipped cream. 
2. Divide over two bowls of vanilla ice-cream.