On Monday, March 3rd, Chipotle will be unveiling the newest member of their protein family, Sofritas. A vegan-based soy, Sofritas is made of organic shredded tofu braised with chipotle chills, roasted poblano peppers and a blend of aromatic spices. It’s texture is similar to ground beef and doesn’t carry any of the flavorless connotation that often follows the meat-free food.
After 20 years of not changing their menu, Chipotle decided they wanted to try out a different type of menu option. With lots of meat-loving customers, they wanted to make sure the Sofritas was a success prior to expanding nationwide. Testing the tofu in launches across the West Coast, the response was so positive that Chipotle will now permanently provide this item in select East Coast cities, Boston being one. So get your burrito order ready, this vegetarian option is doing our way.
High quality food and flavor is a must when it comes to crafting the Chipotle menu. So when it was time to incorporate a more modern dish, it was no doubt that the company partnered with a tofu supplier with similar standards. Hodo Soy, based in the San Francisco Bay area, is an industry leader known for its organic, non-GMO tofu and artisanal methods of production. They pride themselves on producing the highest quality, best-tasting whole bean tofu. Their products are currently featured in some of the area’s leading restaurants, as well as farmers’ markets and specialty food stores.
So after trying the meatless option myself, I have to admit it tasted pretty darn good. Many fear tofu for its lack of flavor and block-like shape, but this was neither. Shredded like ground beef or turkey, Sofritas has depth and a hint of spice. Paired with cilantro-lime brown rice and this combo would be a perfect option for a burrito, bowl or salad. Although, if you’re a meat-lover through and through, you may want to stick with the animal products. Carnitas, chicken and steak are all fabulous protein options that are hard to compete against.
Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian or looking to try something new, the Sofritas is a great option for lunch or dinner. Chipotle also encourages mixing the meat and meatless choices for an epic burrito that packs a serious protein punch. And if you’re looking to cut down on your meat intake, doing this 50/50 protein meal is a great way to ‘cut back’ on the meat in your diet. Just take it one burrito at a time. Let’s call it soy-filled baby steps.
