Every chef, gourmet or not, should have a well-stocked kitchen. Theres nothing worse than beginning a meal to find out th at you have run out of oil or dont have enough shortening to bake an apple pie for dessert. Never be caught unprepared again. From such essentials as olive, canola or vegetable oil to cake shortening, and butter there is plenty on hand to add great taste to any meal or dessert. We have also kept in mind those cooks who need to substitute but not skimp on flavor, so we have also included a range of butter and shortening alternatives.