A History of Chipotle's Pinto Beans and the Bacon Controversy
For many years, Chipotle Mexican Grill's pinto beans were a source of frustration and confusion for vegetarian and vegan customers. The company initially seasoned its pinto beans with a small amount of bacon for flavor. While this might seem insignificant to some, it meant that the pinto beans were not a viable option for those following a plant-based diet. This decision was met with pushback from customers who felt the company's "Food with Integrity" motto was compromised.
The inclusion of bacon in the pinto bean recipe was a long-standing practice. However, as dietary preferences evolved and the demand for vegetarian and vegan options grew, Chipotle received increasing pressure to change its recipe. A Change.org petition was even created in 2012, urging the company to remove the bacon and make the pinto beans vegetarian-friendly. The petition highlighted the benefits of removing the bacon, such as decreasing costs, aligning with the company's integrity program, and providing more choices for customers. This public outcry, combined with the general trend toward plant-based eating, played a crucial role in Chipotle's decision to update its recipe.
The Recipe Change: What Happened to the Bacon?
Listening to customer feedback, Chipotle made the significant change to its pinto bean recipe. In a move widely celebrated by the vegetarian and vegan community, the company removed the bacon entirely. Today, the pinto beans are cooked using plant-based ingredients, such as onion, spices, and adobo sauce, to achieve the signature smoky flavor without any animal products.
This change not only satisfied a growing number of customers but also aligned with a broader industry shift towards offering more inclusive menu options. Chipotle's commitment to adapting its menu to meet consumer demands has been a key part of its success. By making its pinto beans vegetarian, the company made its menu more accessible and appealing to a wider range of diners.
Ingredients in Chipotle's Pinto Beans Today
The current recipe for Chipotle's pinto beans focuses on a blend of flavorful, plant-based ingredients. The official ingredient list includes:
- Prepared pinto beans
- Water
- White onion
- Rapeseed oil
- Adobo sauce
- Salt
- Garlic puree
- Cumin
- Oregano
- Black pepper
This composition ensures the beans are robust and flavorful while remaining completely meat-free. Chipotle's transparency regarding its ingredients is a hallmark of the brand and has helped build trust with its customers.
Comparing Chipotle's Beans: Pinto vs. Black
For customers building their meal at Chipotle, a common question is whether to choose pinto or black beans. Both are excellent choices, and both are now completely vegetarian and vegan. Here's a comparison to help you decide:
| Feature | Pinto Beans | Black Beans |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Creamier, with a savory, smoky adobo taste. | Firmer, with a milder, earthy flavor. |
| Texture | Soft and tender, almost mashed. | Slightly firmer and more distinct in shape. |
| Ingredients | Pinto beans, water, white onion, rapeseed oil, adobo sauce, spices, garlic, salt, and citrus juice. | Black beans, water, white onion, rapeseed oil, adobo sauce, spices, garlic, salt, and citrus juice. |
| Dietary Suitability | Vegetarian and vegan. | Vegetarian and vegan. |
| Best For | Burritos where a creamy texture is desired. | Burrito bowls or salads where a firmer texture is preferred. |
The Vegan and Vegetarian Experience at Chipotle
With the removal of bacon from the pinto beans, both the black and pinto beans are now staples in the vegan and vegetarian options at Chipotle. In addition to the beans, many other items are also plant-based, making it a reliable choice for those with dietary restrictions. These options include:
- Sofritas: A protein option made from shredded tofu braised with a blend of chipotle chilis, roasted poblanos, and spices.
- Fajita Vegetables: Sautéed bell peppers and onions that add flavor and texture to any dish.
- Rice: Both the cilantro-lime white and brown rice are vegan-friendly.
- Guacamole: A creamy, flavorful classic that is included at no extra charge on veggie entrées.
- Salsas: All of Chipotle's salsas are vegan.
It is important for customers with severe allergies or strict vegan diets to be aware of the potential for cross-contamination, as all food is prepared in shared kitchen spaces. However, the ingredients themselves are plant-based.
Conclusion: A Win for Plant-Based Diners
In summary, the question "Does Chipotle put bacon in their pinto beans?" has a clear and reassuring answer for plant-based diners: no, they do not. The company made a conscious decision years ago to remove bacon from the recipe, transforming the pinto beans into a vegetarian and vegan-friendly option. This change reflects a broader shift toward more inclusive menu offerings and highlights the importance of customer feedback in shaping a brand's products. Today, customers can confidently enjoy either the pinto or black beans, both of which are seasoned with a flavorful blend of spices and plant-based ingredients.
How to Build a Vegetarian Meal at Chipotle
For a delicious vegetarian meal, start with a bowl or burrito. Select your rice (white or brown) and add your choice of beans (pinto or black). Include the fajita vegetables for extra flavor. Top with sofritas for protein or add guacamole for a richer taste. Finish with your favorite salsas, lettuce, and any other desired toppings. This combination creates a satisfying and flavorful meal that is completely plant-based and delicious.
The Importance of Ingredient Transparency
Chipotle's decision to clearly label its ingredients and respond to customer feedback is a valuable lesson in corporate responsibility. By making the pinto beans vegetarian, the company not only expanded its customer base but also demonstrated a commitment to its stated values. This transparency helps build long-term trust with consumers, who appreciate knowing exactly what goes into their food.
Can you still get bacon at Chipotle?
While bacon is no longer in the pinto beans, Chipotle has periodically tested bacon as an add-on protein in various markets. These tests are often part of a limited-time offering and are not a standard menu item nationwide. Customers interested in these limited-time menu additions should check the company's website or local restaurant offerings.
A Look at Copycat Recipes
Many copycat recipes for Chipotle's famous pinto beans now circulate online, and a quick search reveals that most modern versions omit the bacon. These recipes often feature ingredients like cumin, adobo sauce, and garlic to replicate the smoky, savory flavor. This confirms that it is possible to achieve the iconic Chipotle taste without using any animal products, a fact the company ultimately recognized itself. The evolution of the pinto bean recipe shows that great flavor doesn't have to come at the expense of dietary inclusivity. You can find numerous versions of these recipes from reputable food blogs online.
