Hark! There Is a Brand-New Menu Item at Chipotle and It Looks Delicious

In 20 years of serving up delicious burritos, Chipotle hasn’t changed much. That’s why today is such an exciting day for anyone who likes mass-market, Americanized versions of Mexican food. The fast-casual chain announced the first-ever major addition to its menu: Sofritas, a meatless protein, that will be used to make vegan and veggie burritos and tacos. Chipotle describes the meal base as organic tofu that’s shredded and braised with chipotle chilis, roasted poblanos and spices.

The item has been available in select markets for the past year, but Chipotle culinary manager Nate Appleman tells Fast Company that the product went through several revisions before the chain settled on a chili-based recipe. Originally a chorizo substitute, Chipotle hopes that the new product will appeal to more than just vegans and vegetarians who usually have to settle for an extra-large dollop of guacamole.

All in all, it’s a good week to be a fan of fast-casual Mexican food. A few days ago, the Internet recoiled at news about Taco Bell’s Waffle Taco—a questionable addition to the breakfast oeuvre if there ever was one—becoming available nationwide. The chain is also adding a quesarito (yup, burrito wrapped in a quesadilla) which, coincidentally, is already offered by Chipotle.

Judging how many calories are just in the Chipotle tortilla though, the vegan burrito will probably be almost as bad for you as a meat one.