Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
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 invention of modern, shelf-stable vegetable shortening. [1] In the earlier centuries, lard was the primary ingredient used to shorten dough. [2]
Because of the relatively large fat crystals in lard, it is extremely effective as a shortening in baking. Pie crusts made with lard tend to be flakier than those made with butter. Many cooks employ both types of fat in their pastries to combine the shortening properties of lard with the flavor of butter. [6] [44] [45]
For premium support please call: 800-290-4726 more ways to reach us
Central European cuisine often uses rendered lard or, more recently, vegetable oil instead of butter for the preparation of roux. [citation needed] Japanese curry karē (カレー) is made from a roux made by frying yellow curry powder and flour together with butter or oil; this is called karērū (カレールー, curry roux). [citation needed]
The end result is a thin liquid that is flavorful and meant for drinking: Think chicken soup, like Ree's slow-cooker chicken tortilla soup, or consommé, which is essentially a fancy clarified broth.
For premium support please call: 800-290-4726 more ways to reach us
Common types of fat used include butter, vegetable shortenings, lard and margarine. Butter is the most common type used because it provides a richer taste and superior mouthfeel. Shortenings and lard have a higher melting point therefore puff pastry made with either will rise more than pastry made with butter, if made correctly.
[13] [14] [15] The cause of this texture is its high fat content, provided by the butter. The short or crumbly texture is a result of the fat inhibiting the formation of long protein strands. The related word "shortening" refers to any fat that may be added to produce a "short" (crumbly) texture. [16]