You know what I love about Chipotle? They let you choose your own adventure. For me, that means a burrito bowl with brown rice, black beans, and all of the best veggie fixings (I’m lookin’ at you, guacamole). When you’re following a vegan meal plan, having the freedom to customize your meal – especially when you’re on the go – is a true luxury. Chipotle doesn’t put vegans in a box. They give us options. And that’s what switching to a plant-based diet is all about (more on this in our vegan starter guide).
If it’s been a while since you’ve eaten at Chipotle, you may have missed the memo about the restaurant’s new-ish vegan menu item: Sofritas.
Oh, Sofritas. You make my taste buds smile. I didn’t think it was possible for Chipotle to get any better, but they pulled a fast one on me. For those who have yet to be enlightened, Sofritas is shredded, organic tofu braised with chipotle chilis, roasted poblano peppers, and a blend of aromatic spices. The result: a delicious, spicy protein that will have both vegans and carnivores coming back for more.
At least that’s what Chipotle hopes will happen. Those who order Sofritas on January 26th are invited to come back between January 27th and February 28th for a free Chipotle burrito, bowl, salad, or order of tacos of their choice. Just remember to bring your original receipt to get your second meal on the house.
Chipotle began testing Sofritas in San Francisco in early 2013. After a successful year in the Bay Area, Chipotle began adding Sofritas to its nationwide menu in 2014. Chipotle culinary manager Nate Appleman told Fast Company that Sofritas went through several revisions before the chain settled on a final recipe that mimics chorizo. If you ask me, Mr. Appleman, you nailed it.
You might be wondering where this magical protein comes from. I was curious, too! As with the rest of its menu items, Chipotle is very transparent about where it sources the tofu that goes into Sofritas. I was pleased to learn that the fast-food chain has partnered with Hodo Soy, which makes its tofu from organic, non-GMO, US-grown whole soybeans. Would you expect anything less from a chain that prides itself on using natural ingredients?
Chipotle hopes Sofritas will appeal to everyone from the diehard carnivore to vegetarians and vegans. I can safely say they have my vote. Whether you’re a longtime vegan or are slowly making the transition to a vegan meal plan, I encourage you to give Sofritas a try! I can almost guarantee you’ll love it. Even if you don’t, the absolute worst thing that could happen is that you’ll get a free burrito out of the deal.
Simon
Great info, marking this on the calendar. Sofritas is pretty tasty, a good texture, and nicely spiced. I sound like a chipotle marketing director, but I'm a fan.
Angela P.
Anyone happen to know if the sofritas are gluten-free?
John
Wow, that's a great article. I have always liked Chipotle, but there's a lot of great info in there that I was unaware of. On a foggy morning in SF, I actually had the first Sofritas burrito ever eaten by a Chipotle customer! Well, not really, but I'm sure I was one of the first.