The Sofritas Bowl from Chipotle features spicy shredded tofu braised with chipotle peppers and roasted poblanos, served over a bed of cilantro-lime rice, black beans, fresh salsa, and topped with crisp lettuce for a flavorful and colorful plant-based meal.
Equipments
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Saucepan (for rice)
- Saucepan (for beans)
- Mixing bowls
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Serving bowls
- Colander (for rinsing beans/rice/tofu)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) extra-firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
- 2 tablespoons adobo sauce
- 1 roasted poblano pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 lime
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (for beans)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (for beans)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (for beans)
- 1 cup fresh salsa (such as pico de gallo)
- 2 cups romaine lettuce
Extra-firm tofu is essential for the Sofritas Bowl to maintain texture during braising with chipotle peppers and roasted poblanos. Fresh cilantro and lime juice in the rice bring a vibrant, zesty flavor that complements the smoky spices like smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Rinsing canned black beans thoroughly and seasoning them with cumin, garlic powder, and salt enhances their taste without overpowering the dish. Use fresh salsa such as pico de gallo to add a crisp, tangy contrast to the rich tofu and creamy beans. Your homemade Sofritas Bowl from the Chipotle copycat menu will deliver an authentic, plant-based meal full of bold flavors and colorful ingredients.
Instructions
- Press and drain tofu.
- Cook rice with water; stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice when done.
- Rinse and drain black beans; simmer with cumin, garlic powder, and salt.
- Roast poblano pepper; peel and chop.
- Dice onion and garlic.
- Crumble pressed tofu.
- Heat oil in skillet; sauté onion and garlic.
- Add crumbled tofu; cook until lightly golden.
- Blend or finely chop chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, roasted poblano, tomato sauce, and vegetable broth.
- Pour sauce into skillet with tofu.
- Add smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer tofu mixture until thickened and heated through.
- Shred or chop romaine lettuce.
- Assemble bowls: spoon cilantro-lime rice as base.
- Top with black beans, sofritas, salsa, and lettuce.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Sofritas Bowl from Chipotle copycat menu offers a spicy, plant-based alternative using shredded tofu braised with chipotle peppers and roasted poblanos. If extra-firm tofu isn't available, firm tofu can be used, but pressing it thoroughly is essential to remove excess moisture and achieve the right texture. You can substitute black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans if preferred, and fresh salsa can be swapped for store-bought salsa verde or pico de gallo. Use vegetable broth in place of water to cook the rice for added flavor, and adjust the heat by reducing or increasing chipotle pepper quantity according to your taste. When roasting poblanos is not an option, canned roasted poblano peppers can serve as an effective alternative.
Tips
Press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture for better texture and flavor absorption. Rinse both the rice and black beans well to eliminate any impurities and enhance the final dish's cleanliness. When roasting the poblano pepper, ensure it's charred evenly on all sides to easily peel off the skin and unlock its smoky flavor. Season the black beans while simmering to infuse them with complementary spices that elevate your Sofritas Bowl experience.
Nutritions
The Sofritas Bowl offers a balanced plant-based meal rich in protein from extra-firm tofu, providing approximately 20 grams per serving to support muscle health. Fiber content is boosted by black beans and cilantro-lime rice, contributing to digestive wellness and sustained energy release. Vitamins A and C are abundant due to fresh salsa, roasted poblanos, and romaine lettuce, enhancing immune function and skin health. You can enjoy this flavorful bowl knowing it combines essential nutrients with bold spices for a nutritious, satisfying dish.
Storage
Store leftover Sofritas Bowl components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Keep cooked tofu mixture, rice, and beans refrigerated for up to 3-4 days, while fresh salsa and lettuce should be consumed within 1-2 days for optimal texture. When reheating, warm the tofu, rice, and beans thoroughly before adding fresh ingredients to preserve your bowl's vibrant flavors and quality.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap extra-firm tofu with tempeh for a nuttier flavor and firmer texture in your Sofritas Bowl. Replace long-grain white rice with quinoa or brown rice to boost fiber and nutrients. Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes instead of tomato sauce for a chunkier sauce with added antioxidants. You can also add roasted corn or diced avocado as toppings for extra freshness and creaminess.
Allergies
Your Sofritas Bowl may pose allergy risks, especially if you have sensitivities to soy, as it contains extra-firm tofu, a soy product. The bowl also includes common allergens like garlic and onions, which can trigger reactions in some individuals. People with legume allergies should be cautious due to the presence of black beans.
Why this recipe?
Sofritas Bowl from Chipotle is highly favored for its bold, spicy flavors and its rich, smoky tofu base that delivers a satisfying protein alternative for vegetarians and vegans. The combination of seasoned tofu with fresh salsa, rice, beans, and customizable toppings creates a balanced and nutritious meal packed with texture and taste. Making the copycat version allows you to control ingredients and spice levels while enjoying a healthier, homemade take on this popular dish. Your ability to replicate this iconic bowl at home offers convenience and the opportunity to tailor it precisely to your flavor preferences.