If you're looking for a healthier option for shortening, you may want to consider Natural Shortening. One tablespoon (14g) of Natural Shortening contains 130 calories.
In addition to being lower in calories compared to regular shortening, Natural Shortening also has some nutritional benefits. It is typically made from plant-based sources, making it a good option for vegans or those with dietary restrictions. Natural Shortening is also free from trans fats, which can have negative health effects if consumed in excess.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at what Natural Shortening is, how it's made, and its benefits and drawbacks.
What is Natural Shortening?
Natural Shortening is an alternative to traditional shortening that is made from plant-based sources. It is typically made from a blend of sustainable oils, such as palm, coconut, or sunflower, and is free from trans fats and hydrogenated oils. Natural Shortening can be used in a similar way to traditional shortening, making it a good option for vegan or health-conscious bakers.
How is Natural Shortening made?
Natural Shortening is typically made by blending together plant-based oils, such as palm, coconut, or sunflower. The oils are then partially hydrogenated, which gives the shortening its solid texture. However, some companies are now making Natural Shortening without the use of hydrogenation, using palm oil that has been naturally processed to be solid at room temperature.
What are the benefits of Natural Shortening?
One of the main benefits of Natural Shortening is that it is free from trans fats, which have been shown to have negative health effects when consumed in excess. Natural Shortening is also made from plant-based sources, making it a good option for vegans or those with dietary restrictions. Additionally, Natural Shortening can be used in a variety of baked goods, including cakes, cookies, and pie crusts, and has a neutral flavor that won't overpower other ingredients.
How many calories are in 1 tbsp (14 g) of Natural Shortening?
One tablespoon (14g) of Natural Shortening contains 130 calories.
What are the nutrients in Natural Shortening?
Natural Shortening is not a significant source of any vitamins or minerals, but it is lower in saturated fat compared to other types of shortening. In general, Natural Shortening is not considered a health food, but it can be a better option compared to traditional shortening.
Is Natural Shortening healthier than regular Shortening?
Natural Shortening is generally considered to be a healthier option compared to regular shortening, which is typically made from hydrogenated oils and may contain trans fats. In addition to being lower in calories, Natural Shortening is free from trans fats and is made from plant-based sources.
How much Natural Shortening should be consumed daily?
There is no specific daily recommendation for Natural Shortening, but like any fat or oil, it should be consumed in moderation. If you're using Natural Shortening in your cooking or baking, it's important to measure it out carefully and not exceed the recommended amount in recipes.
What are the possible side effects of consuming too much Natural Shortening?
Consuming too much Natural Shortening can lead to weight gain and an increased risk of heart disease. Additionally, like any fat or oil, consuming too much Natural Shortening can cause digestive issues such as bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.
How can Natural Shortening be used in cooking and baking?
Natural Shortening can be used in a variety of baked goods, including cakes, cookies, and pie crusts. It has a neutral flavor that won't overpower other ingredients, making it a good option for recipes where you want the other flavors to shine through. When using Natural Shortening in recipes, it's important to measure it out carefully and follow the recipe's instructions closely for best results.
Are there any alternatives to using Natural Shortening in recipes?
If you're not able to use Natural Shortening in your recipes, there are several other alternatives you can try. Coconut oil, butter, and margarine can all be used in place of Natural Shortening in some recipes, depending on the specific recipe and your dietary needs. Keep in mind that not all substitutes will work in every recipe, so it may take some experimentation to find the best option.
Natural Shortening is a good option for vegans or those with dietary restrictions.
Natural Shortening: 5 FAQs Answered
1. What is natural shortening?
Natural shortening is a fat-based ingredient used in cooking and baking. It is made from plant-based oils such as vegetable oil, coconut oil, or palm oil, and is solid at room temperature. Unlike traditional shortening, which may contain trans fats or other additives, natural shortening is minimally processed and free from hydrogenated oils.
2. How is natural shortening used?
Natural shortening can be used in a variety of ways, such as in place of butter or traditional shortening in recipes for pie crusts, cookies, cakes, and other baked goods. It can also be used for frying foods or as a replacement for butter or margarine when spreading on toast or baked goods.
3. What are the nutritional benefits of natural shortening?
While natural shortening is still a high-calorie ingredient, it contains fewer saturated and trans fats than traditional shortening or margarine. It is also free from artificial additives and preservatives, making it a healthier option for baked goods and cooking.
4. Is natural shortening suitable for vegans?
Yes, most natural shortenings are vegan as they are made from plant-based oils. However, it is always important to check the ingredients list before purchasing to ensure that there are no animal-derived products such as animal fats or dairy ingredients.
5. Where can I buy natural shortening?
Natural shortening can be found in health food stores, specialty markets, and online retailers. Look for brands that use high-quality, non-GMO ingredients and are free from preservatives and artificial additives.