Easy, Foolproof Recipe: How To Make Chicken Pot Pie Crust Without Using Shortening

Intro paragraph:
If you’re a fan of chicken pot pie but not a fan of using shortening in your crust, don’t worry! There are many ways to make a delicious crust without using shortening. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best ways to make a chicken pot pie crust without shortening. Whether you’re looking for a healthier option or simply don’t like the taste of shortening, these tips will help you create a crust that’s perfect for your chicken pot pie.

How To Make Chicken Pot Pie Crust Without Shortening

Chicken pot pie is a delicious comfort food that is perfect for a chilly day. The filling is usually made with chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, and it is topped with a flaky pie crust.

The pie crust is what makes chicken pot pie so special. It is made with flour, butter, and ice water, and it is rolled out and draped over the filling.

But what if you don’t have any shortening on hand? Can you still make a delicious pie crust?

Yes, you can make a pie crust without shortening. All you need is butter, flour, and ice water.

Here’s how to make a pie crust without shortening:

1. Cut the butter into small cubes and place it in a bowl.

2. Add the flour to the bowl and use a pastry cutter or a fork to cut the butter into the flour.

3. Add the ice water to the bowl and mix the dough until it comes together.

4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times until it forms a smooth ball.

5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes.

6. After the dough has chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick.

7. Use the dough to line a pie dish, trimming any excess dough.

8. Fill the pie dish with the chicken pot pie filling and bake according to the recipe instructions.

And there you have it! A delicious pie crust that is made with butter instead of shortening.

Can I Use Butter Instead Of Shortening To Make A Chicken Pot Pie Crust?

• Yes, you can use butter instead of shortening to make a chicken pot pie crust.
• Butter will give the crust a flaky texture, but it may not be quite as crispy as it would be with shortening.
• Make sure that the butter is cold before you start working with it, and cut it into the flour using a pastry blender or fork.
• You may need to add a little bit of water if the dough is too dry.
• Roll the dough out thin and place it in a pie dish, then fill it with your favorite chicken pot pie filling.

Are There Any Tricks To Making A Good Pie Crust Without Shortening?

It is common knowledge among cooks that shortening makes a flaky pie crust. However, some people may not want to use shortening due to dietary restrictions or personal preference. In this blog post, we will discuss how to make a good pie crust without using shortening.

Firstly, all purpose flour is a staple in American pantries. It is a combination of hard and soft wheat and has a higher protein content than cake flour. Also, cake flour is milled from soft wheat and has a low protein content. Additionally, cake flour creates the lightest, most tender pie crust.

Secondly, cold butter is your friend. Make sure to keep the butter in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it. The colder the butter, the more flaky the crust will be. Also, it’s important to cut the butter into the flour using a pastry cutter or a fork. Do not use a mixer, as this will create too much gluten and result in a tougher crust.

Thirdly, ice water makes the dough more flaky. This is because the water creates steam during baking, which causes the layers of dough to separate. However, the water must be ice cold. Add water a little at a time until the dough comes together. The dough should not be too wet or too dry.

Finally, bake your pie crust according to the recipe. Bake the crust until it is golden brown and flaky. If the crust is browning too quickly, cover it with foil.

In conclusion, it is possible to make a good pie crust without using shortening. By using all purpose flour, cold butter, ice water, and baking the crust according to the recipe, you can create a flaky and delicious pie crust.

Are There Any Other Ingredients I Can Use In Place Of Shortening To Make A Chicken Pot Pie Crust?

Absolutely! There are many alternatives to shortening that you can use to make a chicken pot pie crust. One option is to use lard, which is a rendered fat from pigs. Lard is commonly used in pie crusts and imparts a rich, flaky texture. Another alternative is butter, which is a popular ingredient in pie crusts and adds a buttery flavor. If you prefer a plant-based option, you can use coconut oil, which is solid at room temperature and has a neutral flavor. Other options include vegetable shortening, which is a type of hydrogenated vegetable oil, and leaf lard, which is a type of fat from around the pig’s kidneys. You can also experiment with using a combination of different fats, such as butter and lard, to achieve your desired texture and flavor.

Are There Any Health Concerns Associated With Using Shortening In A Pie Crust?

Absolutely, there are some health concerns associated with using shortening in a pie crust. Shortening is typically made from hydrogenated vegetable oil, which is a trans fat. Trans fats are known for their negative impact on heart health, as they can raise bad cholesterol levels and increase the risk for heart disease. While trans fats are not as common in cooking as they once were, they are still present in some processed foods, including shortening.

Additionally, shortening is high in saturated fat, which can also negatively impact heart health. While saturated fat is not as harmful as trans fat, it is still best to consume it in moderation.

Finally, shortening is typically high in calories, so it is important to be mindful of portion sizes.

Overall, while shortening can be used to make a flaky pie crust, it is important to be aware of the potential health concerns associated with it.

Are There Any Alternatives To Shortening For Making A Chicken Pot Pie Crust?

Instead of using shortening, you can make a pie crust using butter or lard. Butter will make the crust flaky and flavorful, while lard will make the crust more tender and flaky. Another alternative is to use a pre-made pie crust. You can find these in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. They may not be as tasty as homemade crust, but they are a convenient option.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, making chicken pot pie crust without shortening may seem daunting, but it’s actually a simple and easy process. By using a combination of butter and flour, you can create a delicious and flaky pie crust that is perfect for your favorite chicken pot pie recipe. So don’t be afraid to give it a try!