It's in the Banana Stand

I can never think of frozen bananas without thinking of Arrested Development. It has to be one of my favorite shows of all time (the first three seasons that is, not the abysmal Netflix 4th season). I fell in love with it when it first came out in 2003, and Roy and I still quote lines from it.

Naturally, when I made these frozen bananas last week we talked about the show again. We kept saying "it's in the banana stand" referring to George telling Michael that there was always money in the banana stand. (Michael later sets it on fire assuming his father means they'd collect insurance money, when in reality there was $250,000 lining with walls of the stand). Much of the show's hilarity ensues around the banana stand. If you're thinking of all those funny moments, and need to log off and go back and watch the show right now, I understand.

Also, I've just heard that the cast is preparing to do a 5th season. If that's the case, I will watch because I am such a fan. I hope that they can get past how bad the 4th season was and go back to the magic of the original seasons. If they do, I'll make a batch of these and happily power through the season.

Chocolate Dipped Frozen Bananas

4 firm but ripe bananas
2 cups semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips
1/3 cup chopped, toasted almonds
Flaked sea salt, such as Maldon (optional)
8 lollipop or Popsicle sticks

Cut each banana in half and insert stick into cut side. Place on a plate and freeze for a few hours or overnight, until firm.

Melt chocolate chips in wide shallow bowl in microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until melted.

Roll banana in melted chocolate, using the back of a spoon to spread the chocolate evenly over the banana and scrape off excess. Immediately sprinkle with almonds and sea salt, if using. Be sure to work quickly as the chocolate will set in about 10 seconds since the banana is already frozen. Return banana to plate and repeat with other banana halves. Enjoy right away or return to freezer.

Note: Can be made up to a week in advance. Cover plate with plastic wrap.