After a limited test, Chipotle Mexican Grill is launching plant-based chorizo nationwide for a limited time, the chain announced Monday.
The fast casual said it saw “positive consumer engagement and fan excitement” after the vegan protein was tested in Denver and Indianapolis last August.
It’s Chipotle’s first plant-based protein introduction since it added tofu-based Sofritas to the menu in 2014.
The vegan chorizo is made from a base of pea protein, spiced with ancho chile, chipotle peppers, tomato paste, garlic, smoked paprika and olive oil. It has 20 grams of protein per serving and, Chipotle noted, “is made with ingredients grown on a farm, not in a lab.”
The comment may be a subtle dig at other restaurant chains that have introduced plant-based meat alternatives made by companies like Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat. A number of other brands are testing their own vegan protein offerings, including Taco Bell’s test of plant-based tacos and Wendy’s experiments with a black bean burger.
"We are thrilled to introduce guests to our new, flavor-packed plant-based chorizo during a season when healthier options are top of mind," CMO Chris Brandt said in a statement. "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."
The Newport Beach, Calif.-based brand is using the plant-based chorizo in three new Lifestyle Bowls, the chain’s platform of entrees curated for specific diets. They are the Whole30 Salad Bowl with greens, plant-based chorizo, tomato salsa, fajita veggies and guacamole; the Vegetarian Bowl with greens, pinto beans, plant-based chorizo, tomato salsa and shredded romaine; and the Vegan Bowl with white rice, black beans, plant-based chorizo, corn salsa, tomato salsa and shredded romaine lettuce.
All orders that include plant-based chorizo will be delivered for free until Sunday. Free delivery is available for all of the chain’s Lifestyle Bowls through the end of the month.
Chipotle said it has spent years perfecting the new vegan protein.
"Creating a delicious plant-based protein that sizzles on the grill with the robust flavor and texture profile chorizo-lovers expect was a real challenge," Nevielle Panthaky, Chipotle’s VP of culinary, said in a statement. "Our culinary team has worked relentlessly for years to develop this breakthrough plant-based chorizo recipe that is uniquely Chipotle and aligns with the brand's industry-leading Food with Integrity standards."
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