The Forktionary Angle
"The Silent Workhorse: How Shortening Transforms Textures"
Definition
A solid fat, usually vegetable-based, used in baking to make pastries and other baked goods tender and flaky.
Flavor Profile
The primary flavor notes for Shortening are:
Chef’s Secret
For the flakiest pie crusts, ensure your shortening is very cold and avoid overworking the dough, which develops gluten.
Best Substitutes
Butter
Lard
Margarine
Buying Guide
Choose hydrogenated vegetable shortening for most baking needs. Avoid trans-fat-free versions if you need specific textural properties.