Chipotle Mexican Grill has been popular for a while now, but what is sofritas? Sofritas is a vegetarian option from Chipotle restaurants.
It’s not the same texture as meat-based proteins like chicken or steak; instead, it’s denser than those choices are.
We will answer these questions in this post: What is sofritas (and what does it taste like)? How do you order sofritas at Chipotle? Is there anything else special about eating sofritas?
What is Sofritas?
Sofritas is a new, delicious product from Chipotle that can make your burrito bowl just as satisfying and filling without all the added calories.
It is a new vegan meat substitute by Chipotle that will be in its stores nationwide.
Chipotle is known for its commitment to organic, fresh ingredients and sustainable farming practices.
So Sofritas will be made with non-GMO tofu that’s been braised in chipotle chilis, roasted poblanos, and a blend of spices.
Sofritas is gluten-free too.
The new vegan protein option can be added to any burrito bowl or tacos order for no extra charge when you ask your server to make it “sofrito style”.
It comes as either shredded like pulled pork or mashed like ground beef – whichever way you prefer.
They can be eaten as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, and they come in three flavors: spicy Chipotle, green tomatillo-serrano cream sauce, and roasted red pepper tomatillo sauce.
What is Chipotle’s Sofritas Made of?
Chipotle’s vegan option known as “Sofrito” uses soybeans to replace meat for an authentic Mexican flavor that will satisfy vegetarians without sacrificing the taste of flesh.
Chipotle’s Sofritas are tofu braised in a smoky chipotle sauce with mild roasted poblanos and spices.
The dish is finished with cooked onions and tomato.
Satisfying yet healthy -that’s what Chipotle is all about.
Protein-packed Sofritas are sure to reduce any guilt you may have after indulging in a meal from the restaurant.
How Popular is Chipotle’s Sofritas?
Chipotle’s Sofritas has quickly become the most popular item on their menu.
How could they have predicted that this meatless option would take off so quickly?
Sofritas are made of shredded tofu, chipotle chiles, and a few other ingredients.
It’s so popular that it has completely taken over the menu board at Chipotle locations nationwide.
It was first introduced in 2014 to address customers’ growing demand for better vegan options.
Since its introduction, sales have been on the rise–over $30 million worth just last year alone.
Sofritas provide an opportunity not only healthier than meat but also less expensive than meat as well.
Chipotle’s success with this new product proves that people prefer plant-based proteins when given a chance.
Is Sofritas Good for You?
As sofritas made from organic tofu, it’s a healthy and nutritious option.
In addition to the benefits of traditionally prepared tofu—low-calorie density per serving and high nutritional value—the organic ingredients that makeup sofritas provide even more health benefits.
The soybeans used are non-GMO certified; they are grown without herbicides or pesticides on sustainable farms with minimal fertilizers and no antibiotics given to the animals raised for their meat or dairy products.
The production process avoids genetically modified organisms entering into contact with the sofritas and ensures that no genetically modified organisms pass on to customers.
The tomatoes, chipotle peppers, cumin, and smoked paprika used in this product are also organic.
In addition to a high content of antioxidants, Vitamin A (beta-carotene) and minerals like calcium and potassium found in these healthy ingredients provide even more benefits for consumers.
Sofritas is made from organically grown soybeans without herbicides or pesticides; it’s GMO-free with nothing artificial added; its production process avoids GMOs coming into contact with food items during processing.
All vegetables have been verified as organic by an independent USDA-certified third-party organization.
What Does Sofritas Taste Like?
The product was developed to answer its goal of making all its menu items more sustainable while maintaining their quality standards and integrity.
The company is currently experimenting with a variety of different plant-based proteins and cooking techniques.
How does it taste? Sofritas have an authentic Mexican flavor that stands up to the boldest dishes on Chipotle’s menu.
The texture is creamy yet firm enough for easy shredding through fresh salads or inside tacos shells, burrito bowls, or tortillas.
And true to Chipotle’s commitment to authentic ingredients, the product was developed using chipotles in adobo sauce.
But don’t worry: The smoky pepper flavor doesn’t overpower the dish like it might with another proteins-in fact, we think it enhances its deliciousness.
How to Make Chipotle’s Sofritas?
There are many ways to make Sofritas, but this is the most flavorful and most straightforward way:
To prepare the marinade:
- In a food processor, combine bell pepper, tomato, onion, water, chipotle chilies, and adobo sauce.
- Pulse until the marinade is slightly chunky and thoroughly combined. Set aside.
To cook the tofu:
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Cut the tofu into ¼ inch pieces and mix with the marinade in a bowl. Cover and leave to sit for 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Fry up a small batch of tofu at a time until golden brown, about 10 minutes, while occasionally flipping them over, so they don’t burn too much on one side.
- Remove from pan and place on a paper towel-lined plate.
- While still hot, roughly chop up or pulse it in a blender until it is broken down into smaller pieces.
- Add marinade to the saute pan and simmer on low heat for about five minutes.
- Add in diced onion, fresh garlic, chili powder, or cumin to taste if you’d like. Enjoy.
Conclusion
Chipotle’s sofritas is a new vegan option that has been generating buzz among health-conscious eaters.
It looks like the company did their homework on this one, and I’m anxious to try it out myself.
If you’re in the mood for some Mexican food but want something healthy and meatless, head over there soon and give it a taste yourself.
What Does Sofritas Taste Like? Does Sofritas Taste Good?
Ingredients
- Sofritas
- Ingredients from your favorite recipes
Instructions
- Depending on the recipes you choose, the taste can vastly differ.
- For authentic results, it is important to choose a recipe that will highlight the original flavor.
- Have fun experimenting with different recipes and taste tests!
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