Fat & Oil | Vegan Vegetarian Lacto Ovo Vegetarian

Fat Margarine

N/A Allergens: Soy
Fat Margarine

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A
  • Primary Cuisine Western
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Vegetable Oils (e.g., Soybean, Palm, Canola), Water

The Forktionary Angle

"The Adaptable Dairy-Free Alternative"

Definition

An emulsion of vegetable oils and water, used as a butter substitute for spreading, baking, and cooking.

Sensory Profile

TasteMild, Fatty, Slightly Salty
TextureSmooth, Spreadable, Creamy
AromaNeutral, Oily, Slightly Dairy-like
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Fat Content

Typically 80% fat, similar to butter, but modern versions vary.

Market Introduction

Invented in France in 1869 as a cheaper butter alternative.

Plant-Based Source

Primarily made from various vegetable oils like soybean, canola, or palm oil.

Nutrition Facts

Per 14g (1 tbsp)
Calories717 kcal
Total Fat80g
Saturated Fat15g
Trans Fat0.5g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein0.2g
Total Carbohydrate0.4g
Dietary Fiber0g
Total Sugars0g
Calcium0mg
Iron0mg
Potassium0mg

Chef’s Secret

For flaky pastries, ensure margarine is very cold. Its higher water content compared to shortening can yield a lighter crust.

Substitutions

Best Match

Butter

1:1

Best for flavor, texture, and baking applications, but contains dairy.

Shortening

1:1

Good for flaky crusts and frying, but lacks flavor.

Vegetable Oil

1:1 (liquids need adjustment)

Suitable for cooking and some baking, but alters texture in solid fat recipes.

Avocado

1:1 (volume)

Dairy-free option for spreading, but flavor and texture are distinct.

Buying Guide

Look for non-hydrogenated or 'soft' varieties to reduce trans fats. Check ingredient labels for allergens like soy or dairy.

Flavor Pairings

Toast baked goods scrambled eggs mashed potatoes sauces.

Recipes Using Fat Margarine

Apple N Oats Breakfast Pudding image 103
Low Cholesterol Time To Make Low Saturated Fat Main Ingredient

Apple N Oats Breakfast Pudding

Start your day with this delicious and healthy Apple N' Oats Breakfast Pudding! This low-GI recipe is perfect for those watching their blood sugar or simply seeking a nutritious and satisfying breakfast. We love using Braeburn apples for their sweetness, but feel free to experiment with your favorite baking apples. Warm, comforting, and bursting with cinnamon spice, this pudding is sure to become a new morning favorite!

See Complete Recipe
Banana Split Dessert 4 Points Low Fat Low Sugar image 131
To Go Main Ingredient To Go Bananas

Banana Split Dessert 4 Points Low Fat Low Sugar

Indulge in a guilt-free twist on the classic banana split! This lighter, healthier version is packed with delicious layers of creamy pudding, sweet bananas, and crunchy nuts, all while keeping it low-fat and low-sugar. Each serving boasts approximately 194 calories and only 6 grams of fat – that's roughly 4 Weight Watchers points! Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the extra weight.

See Complete Recipe
Crab Custard Casserole image 145
Equipment Preparation Shellfish Time To Make

Crab Custard Casserole

Indulge in this dreamy Crab Custard Casserole, a luxurious and lightened-up brunch masterpiece! Inspired by the Amber House Inn in Sacramento, this recipe (originally featured in Southern Living Low-Fat Recipes, January 1997) delivers a delicate crab custard baked to perfection. Flaky crabmeat mingles with creamy cheese in a fluffy egg custard, creating a flavor sensation that's both elegant and surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for a special Sunday brunch or a sophisticated weeknight dinner.

See Complete Recipe