<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>> Thank you to the masses of you who replied to my query about what shortening is. For those interested, it is solid vegetable fat - which in the UK can be found in various brands such as Cookeen. (We do not have the US brand Crisco here as far as I know). As far as I am aware, it is not a term used in the UK. Thanks again Adele PS Thanks for all the health warnings about clogged arteries too!!!