Shortening used in baking?

Unraveling the Mystery: “Shortening Used in Baking?”

Ah, the joys of a crossword puzzle. A delightful challenge that tests your vocabulary, logic, and perhaps even your sanity. But sometimes, even the most seasoned solver stumbles upon a clue that feels like a brick wall. Today, we’re tackling a common baking-related clue: “Shortening Used in Baking?”

This clue can be a tricky one, especially if you’re not a baking enthusiast. There are several types of shortening, and each has its own unique properties. To crack this clue, we need to consider the context of the crossword. Is the answer a common household ingredient, or something more obscure? Is it a single word or a phrase?

Let’s delve into the world of baking shortening and break down some possible clues:

1. The Classics:

Crisco:

This iconic brand is a household name and a popular choice for shortening. If the crossword is leaning towards familiar ingredients, Crisco is a strong contender.

Lard:

A traditional shortening derived from pig fat, lard is known for its rich flavor and flaky results. If the crossword is focused on culinary history or traditional recipes, lard could be the answer.

Butter:

While technically not a “shortening” in the purest sense, butter is often used as a substitute in recipes calling for shortening. It adds a distinct flavor and richness.

2. Beyond the Basics:

Vegetable Shortening:

A generic term for shortening made from plant-based oils, like soybean or palm oil. This option is often used for its neutral flavor and affordability.

Palm Shortening:

Specifically made from palm oil, this shortening offers a high melting point and a smooth texture.

Hydrogenated Oils:

This category includes various shortenings created through a process of hydrogenation, which adds hydrogen atoms to unsaturated oils, making them more solid at room temperature.

3. The Unconventional:

Margarine:

While primarily used as a butter substitute, margarine can also be used in baking, particularly for its affordability and shelf stability.

Duck Fat:

This gourmet shortening adds a luxurious flavor and crispy texture to baked goods.

Ghee:

Clarified butter, ghee, is a popular ingredient in Indian cuisine and can be used as a shortening for its distinctive flavor and high smoke point.

As you can see, the answer to this crossword clue could be a variety of options. The key is to analyze the surrounding clues, the length of the answer, and any potential cross-references.

Remember, the journey to the solution is just as rewarding as the final answer! Good luck, crossword enthusiasts, and happy solving!

Available Answers:

TSP.

Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 2 Jul 24, Tuesday