Shortening is any fat that is a solid at room temperature and is used to make crumbly pastry and other food products. The idea of shortening dates back to at least the 18th century, well before the …

Apr 12, 2024 · Shortening is a hydrogenated form of vegetable oil, meaning it is oil that was turned from liquid to solid. While at room temperature it may resemble animal lard or even butter, but it's …

Sep 8, 2022 · By definition, shortening is any type of fat that is solid at room temperature; lard, hydrogenated solidified oils, margarine, and even butter can be used as shortening. However, in the …

Jan 23, 2025 · Shortening is a type of fat used in baking that remains solid at room temperature. It is typically made from vegetable oils that have been hydrogenated, which gives it a firm texture.

Jun 16, 2021 · Shortening is a type of fat used in cooking and baking. This article reviews what shortening is and whether it is good or bad for your health.

Aug 20, 2025 · Shortening is made of hydrogenated vegetable oil—essentially, vegetable oil that's been converted from a liquid to a solid, prolonging its shelf life. Shortening has a neutral flavor and a …

Mar 5, 2025 · We compare vegetable shortening vs. butter, lard, margarine, and oil so you can choose the right fat for your recipes. See the pros and cons of shortening, then discover the best vegetable …

Sep 29, 2021 · The definition of shortening is any fat that is solid at room temperature. The list isn’t all that long, and you’re probably familiar with most of them. Lard, margarine and vegetable shortening...

Oct 17, 2025 · shortening, fats and oils of animal or vegetable origin used in most doughs and batters to impart crisp and crumbly texture to baked products and to increase the plasticity, or workability, of …

Shortening is a type of fat that remains solid at room temperature and is commonly used in baking and frying. It helps create tender, flaky textures in pastries, cookies, and pie crusts.