Chipotle Adds Another Vegan “Meat” Option to Its Menu

After being tested in select markets, Plant-Based Chorizo is finally here for all to try.

January 04, 2022

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Photo by: Photo courtesy of Chipotle

Photo courtesy of Chipotle

Chipotle doesn’t expand their menu all that often, so when a change happens, it’s going to get noticed.

While recent changes have been rather meaty, from brisket to carne asada, the latest is sure to appeal to vegetarians and vegans. Chipotle has launched plant-based chorizo nationwide for a limited time at participating locations. The new vegan spin on chorizo is made with ingredients like chipotle peppers, tomato paste, crushed garlic, Spanish smoked paprika and extra virgin olive oil, which are all flavors commonly associated with spicy chorizo sausage. However, in this spin, it’s made with natural protein from peas. This certified vegan menu item has 16 grams of protein per each four-ounce serving.

“We are thrilled to introduce guests to our new, flavor-packed Plant-Based Chorizo during a season when healthier options are top of mind,” said Chris Brandt, Chief Marketing Officer, Chipotle, in a statement to media. “Plant-Based Chorizo is our best chorizo ever and proves that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor to enjoy a vegan or vegetarian protein.”

As we usher in the new year, many of us are trying to make more health and environmentally conscious eating choices. With this in mind, there’s also three new Lifestyle Bowls being launched in conjunction with the new plant-based chorizo. These bowls include the Whole30 Salad Bowl, which is made with supergreens lettuce blend, plant-based chorizo, fresh tomato salsa, fajita veggies and guacamole, as well as the Vegetarian Bowl, which is made with supergreens lettuce blend, pinto beans, plant-based chorizo, fresh tomato salsa, fajita veggies and cheese. Finally, there’s the Vegan Bowl, which is made with white rice, black beans, plant-based chorizo, corn salsa, fresh tomato salsa, and shredded romaine lettuce.

The new plant-based chorizo was launched nationwide after a test-run in select regional locations and is the second plant-based protein option to be given a shot on the Chipotle menu, following the popular sofritas, which debuted in 2014. But this chain has never been shy about having fun with the vegan options on their menu. Last year, they even promoted a vegan burrito inspired by Miley Cyrus!

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