Your Complete List of Vegan Sides at Chipotle
For those following a plant-based diet, Chipotle offers a surprising abundance of delicious and satisfying sides that are completely free of animal products. The 'sides' can be interpreted broadly to include any item added to your bowl, burrito, or tacos, outside of the main animal-based proteins and dairy. Understanding these options is the key to building a fantastic vegan meal.
Vegan Rice, Beans, and Vegetables
These core ingredients form the foundation of any great Chipotle meal. You can rest assured that all of Chipotle's rice and bean options are plant-based.
- Rice: Both the Cilantro-Lime Brown Rice and Cilantro-Lime White Rice are vegan. The Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice is also vegan.
- Beans: Chipotle's Black Beans and Pinto Beans are both vegan, cooked without lard.
- Fajita Vegetables: This mix of caramelized red onions and green bell peppers, seasoned with oregano, is a staple vegan topping.
Salsas, Guacamole, and Other Toppings
All of Chipotle's core salsa options are vegan.
- Fresh Tomato Salsa (Mild)
- Roasted Chili-Corn Salsa (Medium)
- Tomatillo-Green Chili Salsa (Medium)
- Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa (Hot)
- Guacamole: Made from fresh avocados and other plant-based ingredients, Chipotle's famous guac is entirely vegan. It's free with a veggie-based entrée.
- Lettuce: Both Romaine Lettuce and Supergreens Lettuce Blend are vegan additions.
The Perfect Finish: Chips
The tortilla chips are made from corn tortillas, sunflower oil, and seasoned with kosher salt and lime juice, making them vegan. Pair them with vegan salsas or guacamole.
Comparison: Vegan vs. Non-Vegan Chipotle Add-ons
| Item | Vegan Status | Key Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cilantro-Lime Rice | Vegan | White or brown rice, cilantro, lime juice | Both white and brown rice are vegan. |
| Black or Pinto Beans | Vegan | Beans, spices, onion, garlic | Cooked without any animal fat. |
| Fajita Vegetables | Vegan | Red onion, bell peppers, oregano | A savory and slightly sweet topping. |
| All Salsas | Vegan | Tomatoes, chilis, onions, cilantro, corn | All four salsa options are plant-based. |
| Guacamole | Vegan | Avocado, onion, jalapeño, cilantro | Free with veggie-based entrées. |
| Tortilla Chips | Vegan | Corn tortillas, oil, lime, salt | A delicious and classic side. |
| Chipotle-Honey Vinaigrette | Not Vegan | Honey, oil, red wine vinegar, spices | Contains honey, so it is not vegan. |
| Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese | Not Vegan | Milk, cheese cultures, rennet | Contains dairy. |
| Queso Blanco | Not Vegan | Milk, cheese cultures, dairy ingredients | Contains dairy. |
| Sour Cream | Not Vegan | Cultured cream | Contains dairy. |
Potential Cross-Contamination Concerns
Chipotle prepares food on a shared line, so cross-contamination is possible. If you have strict dietary needs, ask the server to change their gloves and use clean utensils.
Building Your Perfect Vegan Meal
Constructing a delicious vegan meal at Chipotle is simple and customizable. Here is one example of a satisfying vegan bowl you can order:
- Base: Cilantro-Lime Brown Rice and Black Beans.
- Protein: Double Sofritas (or skip for free guac).
- Toppings: Fajita Vegetables, Roasted Chili-Corn Salsa, Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa, and Romaine Lettuce.
- Side: A side of tortilla chips with extra guacamole.
This combination offers a variety of textures and flavors. Always confirm your order clearly.
Conclusion
Ordering vegan at Chipotle is easy as their rice, beans, vegetables, salsas, and chips are all vegan. This provides numerous delicious and customizable options. While being mindful of potential cross-contamination is wise for those with strict dietary requirements, the core ingredients make for a reliable vegan fast-food meal. Chipotle's fresh ingredients allow you to enjoy a flavorful plant-based meal every time.
