What do Chipotle sofritas contain?

December 9, 2025 •

3 min read

In 2014, Chipotle introduced Sofritas, their first plant-based protein option, which is made from organic tofu braised in a blend of spicy and aromatic ingredients. The flavorful dish quickly became a hit among vegan and vegetarian diners seeking a hearty and savory alternative.

Quick Summary

Sofritas are made from shredded, organic tofu braised in a flavorful sauce featuring chipotle chili peppers, roasted poblano peppers, tomato, and a blend of spices.

Key Points

Organic Tofu Base: Sofritas use a base of crumbled organic soy protein, offering a vegan and plant-based protein option.
Braised in a Spicy Sauce: The signature flavor comes from braising the crumbled tofu in a smoky and tangy sauce.
Includes Roasted Peppers: The sauce features a blend of chipotle peppers in adobo and mild roasted poblano peppers for a complex, smoky heat.
Rich Spice Blend: Ingredients like cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika contribute to its distinct flavor profile.
Savory and Meaty Texture: Using extra-firm tofu and the braising method gives sofritas a hearty, shredded texture.
Vegan and Gluten-Free: The ingredients are entirely plant-based, making sofritas a suitable option for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets.
Not Traditional Sofrito: Sofritas is a modern Chipotle creation inspired by the flavors of traditional sofrito but is a unique, protein-based dish.

The Core Ingredients of Chipotle Sofritas

At its heart, Chipotle’s sofritas consist of two main components: a base of crumbled organic tofu and a richly flavored braising sauce. The combination results in a versatile and savory filling for burritos, bowls, and tacos.

The Tofu Base

The foundation of sofritas is organic soy protein, sourced from partners like Hodo Foods. Instead of using plain, block-style tofu, the process involves shredding or crumbling the firm tofu to give it a textured, meaty bite. This preparation allows the tofu to absorb the aromatic braising sauce deeply, infusing every bite with flavor. For those making a copycat version at home, experts recommend using extra-firm or super-firm tofu for the best result, as it holds up well during cooking without becoming watery.

The Braising Sauce

The characteristic smoky and slightly spicy flavor of sofritas comes from its vibrant braising sauce. The sauce is created from a blend of peppers, vegetables, and spices, which are processed into a rich puree.

Chipotle Peppers in Adobo: These smoked and dried jalapeños canned in a tomato-based adobo sauce are a crucial ingredient, providing a deep, smoky heat.
Poblano Peppers: Mild roasted poblano peppers add an earthy, slightly smoky undertone to the sauce.
Tomatoes: Roasted tomatoes contribute a touch of sweetness and acidity that balances the spice.
Onions and Garlic: These aromatics form the foundational flavor base, similar to a traditional sofrito.
Vinegar: A splash of vinegar, such as red wine or apple cider, adds tanginess.

The Spice Blend

In addition to the pepper base, a mix of dried herbs and spices helps build the complex, multi-layered flavor profile. Common spices include:

Cumin: For a warm, earthy flavor.
Oregano: Mexican oregano is preferred for its specific flavor, though Italian oregano can be used as a substitute.
Smoked Paprika: Adds a deep, smoky note that enhances the chipotle flavor.

How Sofritas are Prepared at Chipotle

The preparation process is designed to create a consistent texture and flavor. First, the organic tofu is crumbled. A sauce is prepared from the vegetable and spice blend, and the crumbled tofu is then simmered in this sauce. This braising process is essential as it allows the tofu to fully absorb the rich flavors of the peppers and spices. Unlike many copycat recipes that might fry the tofu separately, Chipotle's method focuses on low and slow cooking to ensure maximum flavor infusion.

Sofritas vs. Other Protein Options: A Nutritional Comparison

For a better understanding of how Sofritas stacks up, here is a nutritional breakdown per 4 oz serving of different Chipotle proteins:


Nutrient	Sofritas	Chicken	Carnitas	Barbacoa
Calories	150	180	210	170
Total Fat	10g	7g	12g	7g
Saturated Fat	1.5g	1.5g	3g	3g
Sodium	560mg	310mg	500mg	530mg
Total Carbs	9g	0g	0g	2g
Fiber	3g	0g	0g	0g
Protein	8g	32g	23g	24g

Versatility and Dietary Advantages

Sofritas are a versatile ingredient that fits into many dietary plans. Being a vegan and gluten-free protein, it's an excellent choice for those with specific dietary restrictions or preferences. The complex and savory profile makes it a satisfying meat alternative that doesn't sacrifice flavor. It can be the star of a meal or a flavorful addition to other dishes.

Sofritas vs. Traditional Sofrito

Though the name is similar, Chipotle's sofritas should not be confused with the traditional sofrito found in many Latin American and Spanish cuisines. Traditional sofrito is an aromatic cooking base made by sautéing ingredients like onions, garlic, and peppers, and it serves as a foundation for stews, rice, and other dishes. Chipotle's sofritas, on the other hand, is a pre-made, tofu-based protein filling, though it was likely inspired by the concept of sofrito.

Conclusion: A Flavorful and Popular Alternative

In conclusion, Chipotle sofritas are a popular and flavorful vegan protein option made from organic tofu braised in a smoky and spicy sauce. The sauce is created from a rich blend of chipotle and poblano peppers, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and various spices. It offers a savory and hearty alternative to meat, suitable for many dietary needs and versatile enough for a variety of meals. With a distinct taste and satisfying texture, sofritas have secured their place as a staple on the Chipotle menu and a favorite among many diners.

Visit Chipotle's official website for more nutritional information

Frequently Asked Questions

Sofritas is a plant-based protein filling from Chipotle Mexican Grill, made from crumbled organic tofu braised in a spicy and smoky sauce.

Yes, sofritas have a mild to moderate level of spice derived from the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. The heat can be adjusted in homemade versions.

Yes, Chipotle's sofritas are completely vegan, made from organic tofu and plant-based spices. They are also gluten-free.

The texture is achieved by pressing and crumbling extra-firm tofu before braising it in the sauce. This process makes it dense and satisfying, similar to shredded meat.

No, sofritas and sofrito are not the same. Sofrito is a traditional, aromatic vegetable base, while sofritas is a specific pre-cooked tofu protein invented by Chipotle.

The spice blend includes cumin, oregano (often Mexican), and paprika, which contribute to its smoky, savory flavor profile.

You can find pre-packaged Chipotle sofritas in the refrigerated section of many grocery stores, including Whole Foods and Kroger.

Yes, there are many copycat sofritas recipes that allow you to replicate the dish at home using similar ingredients like tofu, chipotle peppers, and spices.