Shortening for vegetable oil...?

Question

hi. i have a recipe for banana bread and it calls for 1/4 cup of vegetable oil which i thought i had. but i actually only have shortening made from "meat fat and vegetable oil".can i substitute this without any changes to the end result flavorwise? whats the difference?

Answer 1

You should not substitute it.  It will change the flavor as well as making it very unhealthy.  Also, because of the different textures of shortening and oil (one is solid at room temp one is not) the texture will be thrown way off as well this will be the same case with margarine.  Substitute another oil for it as long as it is neutral in flavor so basically don't use Extra Virgin Olive Oil.  These will work fine: Safflower, Canola, Corn, Olive, Peanut (refined), or any other general cooking oil.  

Answer 2

no do not use shortening use vegetable oil it is healthier and does not have the nasty taste of shortening made from meat

Answer 3

Use margarine, but not the shortening.  Shortening is hydrogenated fat, and besides being unhealthy, it will not give you a nice, tender crumb to your banana bread.  Oil works best, but the margarine is fine.  I would melt it and use that instead.  It will have a nice flavor and not change the crumb of the bread so much.  

Smart for asking, and also adding about the margarine.  Good luck.