How to Choose the Baking & Cooking Shortenings
Everything You Need To Know About Baking & Cooking Shortening
What Is Shortening?
Shortening, commonly known as fat, is a solid form of fat derived from vegetable oils like cotton seeds, soybeans, and others. To achieve the highest quality, hydrogenated fatty acids are employed in the production of shortening. It remains solid at room temperature and requires very high temperatures to melt.
The manufacturing process of shortening is diverse, with each country having its unique recipe using different ingredients.
At first glance, shortening appears similar to other fats - opaque white, porous with a glossy surface, and possessing a certain level of flexibility without cracking. However, when melted, it transforms into a transparent liquid with a pale yellow color, carrying the distinctive flavor of its source materials.
What Is Shortening Used For?
- Both cooking and baking recipes incorporate shortening for various purposes. Understanding how gluten functions in baking is crucial to comprehend the role of shortening in the process. Gluten contributes to a chewy end product, which is ideal for stretchy "long" doughs like pizza crust but not suitable for flaky or crumbly "short" doughs like pie crust. When shortening is added to the dough, it forms a barrier between gluten molecules, preventing gluten development.
- In baked goods, vegetable shortening is used to maintain softness after baking. As the shortening cools, it remains intact and returns to a soft, semisolid state. This characteristic ensures that cookies and other baked treats made with shortening tend to be soft, while those made with butter have a crispier texture.
- Moreover, vegetable shortening serves as a preferred fat for frying due to its safety features. Its high smoke point and absence of water content reduce the chances of spattering or popping at high temperatures. This quality allows food to be quickly cooked at high heat without burning the oil, which would otherwise result in an unpleasant flavor.
- In addition to baking and frying, shortening is commonly used as a substitute for butter in frosting recipes. Its inclusion imparts a snowy white color and fluffy texture, creating a frosting that is more heat-resistant. Furthermore, some recipes simply call for greasing the pan with shortening.
Types Of Shortening
There are several types of shortening commonly used in cooking and baking. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- Vegetable Shortening: This type of shortening is made from vegetable oils, usually hydrogenated to solidify them. It has a high melting point, making it ideal for baking applications where a solid fat is needed. Vegetable shortening is flavorless and has a smooth texture, making it versatile for various recipes.
- Lard: Lard is made from rendered pork fat and has been used as a shortening for centuries. It has a high melting point and adds a distinct flavor to dishes. Lard is commonly used in recipes like pie crusts, biscuits, and savory dishes.
- Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is a plant-based shortening that has gained popularity in recent years. It has a unique flavor and aroma that can add a tropical twist to baked goods. Coconut oil is solid at room temperature but melts easily when heated.
How to Cook and Bake With Shortening
To achieve a shortening effect in dough, you need to incorporate solid fat into flour or a dry flour mixture. This can be done using various tools like a pastry cutter, two knives, a food processor, or simply your hands. The fat should be repeatedly cut into smaller pieces and evenly coated in flour. The size of these fat pieces will determine the texture of the final baked product.
For instance, if you cut the fat into pea-sized pieces, you'll get a flaky product like a pie crust or croissant. On the other hand, a texture resembling coarse sand or cornmeal will result in crumbly mixtures, such as streusel.
When using shortening for frying, take a heavy, high-sided frying pan and add the required amount of shortening. Allow it to melt and reach the desired temperature. Add the food to be fried without overcrowding the pan, and cook until it turns golden brown.
Storage
Shortening possesses a long-lasting quality due to its low moisture content, which effectively postpones rancidity and enhances the fat's stability, enabling multiple uses with minimal degradation. When unopened, vegetable shortening can maintain its quality for up to two years. Once opened, it remains at its best for approximately one year. To preserve its freshness, it should be stored in a cool, dark environment and does not require refrigeration. You can identify spoiled shortening by detecting an unusual smell, taste, or altered appearance.
Things To Consider When Buying Baking & Cooking Shortening
When buying baking and cooking shortening, there are several factors to consider to ensure you make the right choice. Here are some important things to keep in mind:
- Purpose: Determine the specific purpose for which you need the shortening. Are you using it for baking cakes, cookies, or pastries? Or do you need it for frying or sautéing? Different types of shortening are formulated for specific uses, so understanding your needs will help you make an informed decision.
- Ingredients: Check the ingredients list to ensure the shortening meets your dietary requirements and preferences. Look for options that are free from trans fats, hydrogenated oils, and artificial additives. Opting for shortening made from natural or organic ingredients can be a healthier choice.
- Texture and Flavor: Consider the texture and flavor that the shortening will impart to your baked goods or cooked dishes. Some shortenings have a neutral taste, while others have a distinct flavor. Similarly, some shortenings create a flaky texture, while others contribute to a more tender result. Choose the one that aligns with your desired outcome.
- Shelf Life: Look for shortening with a longer shelf life, especially if you don't use it frequently. Some brands offer shortening that can be stored for an extended period without spoiling or losing quality. This can be particularly useful if you only use shortening occasionally.
- Brand Reputation: Research the reputation of the brand you are considering. Read reviews and check for any certifications or awards that indicate the brand's commitment to quality. Established and trusted brands often provide consistent and reliable products.
- Price: Compare prices of different brands and types of shortening. While it's important to consider your budget, remember that quality and performance should also be taken into account. Sometimes, paying a little more for a higher-quality product can yield better results.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when buying baking and cooking shortening that suits your needs and preferences.
