Vegan Substitute

Vegan Substitute for Lard

Vegan lard replacements for pie crusts, biscuits, tamales, and frying. Vegetable shortening and coconut oil deliver flaky, rich results.

Why replace lard?

Lard is rendered pig fat, a direct product of pig slaughter. Plant-based fats perform identically in all culinary applications.

Best vegan alternatives

Vegetable shortening (e.g. Crisco)

Pie crusts, biscuits, pastry, frying

1:1 replacement

Same melting point and fat structure as lard. Look for palm-oil-free versions for sustainability.

Coconut oil (solid, refined)

Tamales, pie crusts, biscuits

1:1 replacement

Refined has no coconut taste. Keep cold for pastry work. Creates beautifully flaky crusts.

Frequently asked questions

What can I use instead of lard in pie crust?

Vegetable shortening is a 1:1 replacement for lard in pie crust and creates equally flaky results. Chilled refined coconut oil also works well. Vegan butter can be used but produces a slightly different texture.

Is vegetable shortening vegan?

Most vegetable shortenings like Crisco are vegan (made from soybean and palm oils). Always check the label as some brands add animal-derived mono- and diglycerides. Spectrum Organic shortening is a certified vegan option.

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