Vegetable Shortening

Vegetable shortening is a solid fat made from hydrogenated vegetable oils, commonly used in baking and frying. It has no distinct seasonality as it is a processed product with a long shelf life. Shortening is prized for its ability to create tender pastries and its high smoke point, making it ideal for deep-frying. It is predominantly used in American cuisine, particularly in pie crusts, biscuits, and frosting recipes, and is a staple in vegan baking as a substitute for butter or lard.

Vegetable Shortening Synonyms

Crisco (a popular brand)
hydrogenated vegetable oil
solid vegetable fat

Vegetable Shortening Substitutes

Lard

Different Forms/Types of Vegetable Shortening

Solid

Vegetable shortening is most commonly found in a solid, white form, made from hydrogenated vegetable oil. It's used for baking and frying due to its high smoke point and ability to create flaky layers in pastries.

Spray

Vegetable shortening is also available in aerosol spray cans for greasing pans and baking sheets. This form provides convenience and portion control.

Liquid

Some brands offer liquid vegetable shortening, which is a clear, pourable oil. This form is less common and is used when a recipe calls for a liquid fat without the distinct flavor that oils like olive or coconut might impart.

How to Choose Vegetable Shortening

When choosing vegetable shortening, opt for brands that have no trans fats and are made from non-hydrogenated oils for a healthier option. Look for a smooth, uniform texture without any discoloration or off odors. If available, select shortening made from organic and sustainably sourced oils.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Vegetable Shortening

Vegetable shortening is a solid fat made from vegetable oils through a process called hydrogenation, which makes it a versatile ingredient in baking and cooking. For intermediate and expert home cooks, it's important to understand that shortening has a high melting point, which makes it ideal for achieving flaky and tender textures in pastries and pie crusts. Unlike butter, shortening does not contain water, so it can create a different texture in baked goods. When creaming shortening with sugar, make sure to beat them until light and fluffy to incorporate air, which helps with leavening. For frying, shortening is a stable choice due to its high smoke point, resulting in a crisp exterior without absorbing too much oil.

Shelf Life of Vegetable Shortening

Vegetable shortening should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Solid shortening can be kept at room temperature for up to a year, while liquid shortening should be used within its expiration date. After opening, ensure the lid is tightly sealed to prevent the shortening from going rancid. If the shortening develops an off smell, taste, or appearance, it should be discarded.

Recommended Brands for Vegetable Shortening

shortening spray: Pam Baking Spray with Flour

solid shortening: Crisco

liquid shortening: Spectrum Organic All Vegetable Shortening

Cooking Techniques for Vegetable Shortening

Baking: Shortening is often used in baking to create tender and flaky pastries. It's especially popular in pie crusts, biscuits, and cookies. When cutting shortening into flour, keep everything cold to prevent the fat from melting, which can compromise the texture of the final product.

Frying: Due to its high smoke point, vegetable shortening is suitable for deep-frying. It can be used to fry chicken, fish, or potatoes, resulting in a crispy and golden exterior.

Creaming: When making cookies or cakes, shortening is creamed with sugar to create a light and airy texture. This process is crucial for the structure of baked goods, as it helps to properly incorporate air.

Popular Vegetable Shortening Recipes

Flaky Pie Crust
Classic Shortening-Based Sugar Cookies
Homemade Biscuits

Vegetable Shortening Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 100 g
fiber: 0 g
sugar: 0 g
protein: 0 g
calories: 884 kcal
carbohydrates: 0 g

Flavor Combinations

Vegetable shortening pairs well with a variety of flavors and ingredients. In baking, it complements both sweet and savory components, such as chocolate, nuts, fruits, and cheeses. It can also be used in conjunction with other fats like butter to balance flavor and texture. In frying, shortening pairs well with breadings and seasonings that benefit from a crisp texture.

Allergen Information

Vegetable shortening is not a common allergen, but it is important to check for specific vegetable oils used in the product in case of individual allergies to soy, palm, or other oils.

Ingredient Comparisons

Lard vs Vegetable Shortening