Chipotle Just Launched Vegan Chorizo Nationwide. Here’s How to Get it Delivered for Free. 

Today, fast-casual chipotle Mexican Grill is expanding its first vegan chorizo ​​protein option to participating locations across the country. The national expansion follows a successful trial of vegan chorizo ​​in August at 103 Chipotle locations in Indianapolis, IN; Denver, CO; and Orange County, CA. The new plant-based chorizo ​​was developed in-house as a minimally processed meat alternative. The certified vegan meat option is made with a pea protein base (a common ingredient found in other vegan meats like Beyond Burger) that is flavored with ancho and chipotle peppers, tomato paste, crushed garlic, smoked paprika Spanish and extra virgin olive oil.

“We are thrilled to introduce guests to our new flavorful veggie chorizo ​​during a season when healthier options are paramount,” said Chris Brandt, Chipotle’s chief marketing officer, in a statement. “Plant-based chorizo ​​is our best chorizo ​​and it shows that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor to enjoy a vegan or vegetarian protein.”

Plant-based chorizo ​​entrees start at $ 8.50 at the customizable chain, which also offers a variety of vegan toppings and fillings, including veggies, beans, sauces, rice, and guacamole. To promote the launch, Chipotle will offer free delivery on any plant-based chorizo ​​order placed through the Chipotle app and Chipotle.com from January 3 to January 9.

Vegan Chorizo ​​in Chipotle

The new Vegetable Chorizo ​​is Chipotle’s second vegan meat option, following the launch of Sofritas in 2014, an organic tofu-based shredded vegan meat seasoned with poblano peppers, cumin and chipotle peppers. In 2019, Chipotle introduced the Vegan Bowl with stir-fries as a permanent menu item as an extension of its Lifestyle Bowls line, a selection of preconfigured menu items created to appeal to customers following diets such as paleo, keto and Whole30.

Now, Chipotle introduces vegan chorizo ​​as a star ingredient in three new Lifestyle Bowls: Whole30 Salad Bowl (mix of supergreens lettuce, plant-based chorizo, tomato sauce, fajita vegetables and guacamole); Vegetarian bowl (mix of supergreens lettuce, pinto beans, vegetable chorizo, tomato sauce, fajita vegetables and dairy-based cheese); and Vegan Bowl (white rice, black beans, vegetable chorizo, corn sauce, tomato sauce, and shredded romaine lettuce).

“Creating a delicious grilled sizzling plant protein with the robust flavor and texture profile that chorizo ​​lovers have come to expect was a real challenge,” said Nevielle Panthaky, Chipotle vice president of gastronomy, in a statement. “Our culinary team has worked tirelessly over the years to develop this innovative plant-based chorizo ​​recipe that is uniquely Chipotle and aligns with the brand’s industry-leading food standards with integrity.”

Chipotle is running a similar promotion for its Lifestyle Bowls, any of which, including those containing the new vegan chorizo, can be ordered through its website and mobile app for free delivery between January 3-31. .

Chipotle’s plant-based journey

In 2018, Chipotle sold 7.5 million pounds of stir-fries, its first formidable vegan protein. Since then, the chain has been working with items on its existing menu to create options that appeal to customers with specific dietary needs.

Last year, Chipotle leaned even further toward keto and vegan trends by launching Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice, one of five products that went through Chipotle’s entry-stage process from 2019 to 2021. Made from Cauliflower grilled and with rice that is finished by hand. Chopped cilantro, lime, and salt, low-carb rice is available as part of a variety of dishes.

Over the years, Chipotle has promoted its vegan options in fun ways. In December 2020, the chain offered The Guac Is Extra but also Miley Burrito. Made to mimic former vegan pop star MIley Cyrus’ burrito order, the option was white rice, black beans, fajita veggies, roasted corn and chili sauce, tomatillo red chili sauce, romaine lettuce, and guacamole. The vegan burrito’s name comes from a humorous interaction between Chipotle, fans, and Cyrus on TikTok.

For more information on Chipotle, read:

How to Order Vegan at Chipotle: The Complete Guide
Do you love cauliflower rice? Chipotle’s New Vegan Keto Option Is For You
Chipotle Introduces a Protein-Packed Vegan Bowl

Anna Starostinetskaya is VegNews Senior News Editor and is always on the lookout for all things vegan in her hometown of San Francisco, CA and elsewhere.