Which ingredient is used in Savoury Short Crust Pastry to provide flavor?

Butter is the ingredient used in Savoury Short Crust Pastry to provide flavor due to its unique properties and taste profile. When used in pastry, butter contributes a rich, creamy flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. It also plays a vital role in creating a tender and flaky texture, as the fat content in butter coats the flour proteins, limiting gluten formation. This results in a delicate and pleasant mouthfeel that characterizes a well-made pastry.

While the other fats listed may serve functional purposes in pastry making, they do not deliver the same depth of flavor as butter. Olive oil, for instance, is often associated with Mediterranean cuisine and has a distinct taste that may not be suitable for all savory pastries. Vegetable oil traditionally lacks flavor, making it less desirable for pastries that benefit from richness. Lard, though it can provide tenderness and is historically used in traditional pastry recipes, offers a flavor that may not be as appealing in contemporary savory applications compared to the nuanced taste of butter.