What is Vegetable Shortening?
Vegetable shortening is a cooking fat created from vegetable fats through a process called hydrogenation. Although it does not add flavor, it adds a desirable texture to baked goods.ProcessDuring the process of hydrogenation, the vegetable oils are chemically transformed into a solid. This converts the oil into a saturated fat, according to the website Recipe Tips.UsesVegetable shortening is primarily used in baking, as a substitute for butter or lard. Although it adds no color or flavor to food, it does contribute flakiness to crusts and can improve the texture of cakes and cookies.DevelopmentThe first vegetable shortening, Crisco, was introduced in 1911, and at the time was a revolutionary product, providing home bakers with an alternative to animal fats. Crisco was advertised for its purity, and the fact that it could be heated to a high temperature without burning or giving off smoke.IngredientsCrisco, one of the best-known shortening brands, lists its primary ingredients as soybea
