SHORTENING Meaning and
Definition
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Shortening refers to a type of fat that is solid at room temperature and is often used in baking and cooking to add texture, moistness, and improve the flavor of food. Primarily made from vegetable oils, it undergoes a process known as hydrogenation, which involves converting liquid oil into a semisolid or solid fat by adding hydrogen molecules. The hydrogenation process increases the stability and shelf life of the product, making it more resistant to spoilage.
Typically white or off-white in color, shortening has a smooth and creamy consistency and a mild flavor that is relatively neutral. It is commonly used in various baked goods such as cakes, cookies, and pastries as it helps create a tender and flaky texture. Additionally, shortening can be employed in frying, as it has a high smoke point, meaning it can withstand higher cooking temperatures without breaking down or producing smoke.
Trusted by chefs and bakers, shortening acts as a substitute for butter, margarine, or lard in recipes. It is often preferred in certain applications due to its ability to create a lighter and more delicate texture in baked goods. However, it is important to note that shortening is high in saturated fats, which are known to increase cholesterol levels when consumed in excess. Therefore, moderation is key when incorporating shortening into a balanced diet.
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A making short or shorter; anything used, as butter or lard, to make pastry crisp.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for SHORTENING *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for SHORTENING
Etymology of SHORTENING
The word "shortening" comes from the verb "shorten", which dates back to Middle English. The term originally referred to the process of making something shorter or reducing its length. Over time, it began to specifically relate to the process of reducing the length of the fibers in materials like wool or cotton to make them more manageable or easier to work with. Eventually, "shortening" also came to refer to the act of reducing the length of cooking or baking ingredients, particularly fats, to produce a more desirable texture in the end product. Thus, the term "shortening" is used to describe both the substance itself and the process of making dough or batter more tender by incorporating fats.
Similar spelling words for SHORTENING
Conjugate verb Shortening
CONDITIONAL
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would shorten
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FUTURE
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will shorten
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FUTURE PERFECT
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will have shortened
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PAST
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shortened
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shortened
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shortened
PAST PERFECT
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had shortened
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PRESENT
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shorten
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shorten
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shorten
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have shortened
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have shortened
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I
am shortening
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will have been shortening
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would be shortening
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would have been shortening
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