Margarine

Margarine is a versatile, non-dairy spread used as a substitute for butter in cooking and baking. It is available year-round and is a common ingredient in various cuisines, particularly in baking and as a spread in Western diets. Margarine is made from vegetable oils and is often fortified with vitamins A and D. It can be used in a 1:1 ratio with butter in recipes, making it a convenient alternative for those looking to reduce saturated fat intake or for those following a vegan diet.

Margarine Synonyms

Spread
vegetable oil spread

Margarine Substitutes

Vegan Butter

Different Forms/Types of Margarine

Tub

Softer than stick margarine, tub margarine is easily spreadable and often used as a condiment or for cooking at lower temperatures.

Stick

Margarine is commonly found in stick form, similar to butter, and is used for baking, cooking, and as a spread.

Liquid

Liquid margarine is a pourable form that can be used for cooking or as a topping for cooked vegetables and other dishes.

Whipped

Whipped margarine contains air, making it lighter and fluffier than traditional stick or tub margarine. It's ideal for spreading on bread or vegetables.

How to Choose Margarine

When choosing margarine, look for products with the least amount of trans fats and no partially hydrogenated oils. Opt for margarine with a high content of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are healthier. Check the ingredient list for added vitamins, such as vitamin A and D, which can be beneficial. Also, consider the application—baking, cooking, or spreading—to select the appropriate form of margarine.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Margarine

Margarine is a versatile ingredient that can be used as a substitute for butter in many recipes. When cooking with margarine, it's important to consider its melting point and water content, which can affect the texture and outcome of your dish. For baking, use margarine with a higher fat content to achieve a texture similar to that of butter. In frying or sautéing, margarine can be used like butter, but be mindful of its lower smoke point; it may burn more easily. For sauces or spreads, margarine can be melted or creamed to the desired consistency. Remember, margarine can also introduce a different flavor profile, so it's best to use it in recipes that complement its taste.

Shelf Life of Margarine

Margarine should be stored in the refrigerator to maintain its quality and prevent spoilage. Stick margarine can be kept in the fridge for several months, while tub and whipped margarine should be used within a month of opening. Liquid margarine should be used by the date indicated on the package and stored in the fridge after opening. Margarine can also be frozen for extended shelf life, but it's best to thaw it in the refrigerator before use to maintain its texture.

Recommended Brands for Margarine

tub margarine: I Can't Believe It's Not Butter!

stick margarine: Land O'Lakes

liquid margarine: Promise

whipped margarine: Shedd's Spread Country Crock

Cooking Techniques for Margarine

Baking: Margarine is often used in baking as a butter substitute. It's important to use a stick margarine with a high fat content, usually labeled as 'baking margarine,' to ensure your baked goods have the proper texture and don't become too greasy.

Sautéing: Margarine can be used to sauté vegetables or proteins over medium heat. It adds a rich flavor and helps to brown the food. However, since it has a lower smoke point than oils, it's important to keep the heat moderate to prevent burning.

Spreading: Due to its soft texture at room temperature, margarine is ideal for spreading on breads, muffins, and pancakes. It can also be combined with herbs and spices to create flavorful spreads.

Popular Margarine Recipes

Chocolate Chip Cookies
Pie Crust
Pound Cake

Margarine Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 80.5 g
fiber: 0 g
sugar: 0 g
protein: 0.85 g
calories: 717 kcal
carbohydrates: 0.9 g

Flavor Combinations

Margarine pairs well with a variety of ingredients, especially in baked goods and savory dishes. It complements both sweet and savory flavors, such as chocolate, vanilla, and citrus in desserts, or garlic, herbs, and spices in savory dishes. Margarine can also be blended with cheeses for a creamy texture or used with bread and pastry to create a soft, tender crumb.

Allergen Information

Margarine can contain trace amounts of milk proteins, making it a potential allergen for those with a dairy allergy. Always check the label for ingredients if you have a dairy allergy or intolerance.