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vanaspati
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vanaspati

shortening
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Quick Summary

Vanaspati is a hydrogenated vegetable fat used as a butter substitute in India. It is derived from the Hindi term vanaspati ghī, meaning "ghee from vegetable matter".1

Shortening, in general, refers to fats and oils essential in baking. They tenderize baked goods, improve dough manipulation, and can add their own flavor. Common shortenings include lard, beef fats, and hydrogenated vegetable oils like cottonseed and soybean oil. Butter is also used, though its cost limits its application. Fats with higher melting points are preferred for products like pie crusts to prevent leakage. Commercial shortenings may contain antioxidants, emulsifiers, colors, and flavors to enhance their properties.2

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. vanaspati
  2. baking - Shortening

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