The Vegetarian Burrito from Qdoba features a hearty blend of seasoned black beans, fluffy cilantro-lime rice, fresh pico de gallo, crisp lettuce, and melted cheese, all wrapped in a warm, soft flour tortilla for a flavorful and satisfying meat-free meal.
Equipments
- Rice cooker
- Saucepan
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Spoon or spatula
- Cheese grater
- Tortilla warmer or microwave
- Serving tongs
- Large prep counter or assembly station
Ingredients
- 1 cup black beans (canned or cooked from dry)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro
- 1 lime
- 2 medium tomatoes
- 1 small red onion
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (for pico de gallo)
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 cups shredded romaine lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Using canned black beans can save time, but rinsing them thoroughly reduces excess sodium and improves flavor. Fresh cilantro and lime juice are essential for achieving the bright, zesty taste characteristic of the cilantro-lime rice and pico de gallo. Adjust the amount of jalapeno peppers to control the spice level according to your preference. Shredded cheddar cheese provides a creamy texture, but you can substitute with a plant-based cheese for a vegan option. Your homemade Vegetarian Burrito from Qdoba copycat menu will be more authentic by focusing on fresh ingredients and balanced seasoning.
Instructions
- Rinse and cook the rice in the rice cooker according to the package instructions.
- Zest and juice the lime.
- Chop fresh cilantro (for rice and pico de gallo).
- When rice is cooked, mix in 2 tablespoons cilantro, lime zest, lime juice, and salt to taste.
- Drain and rinse black beans if using canned; warm in a saucepan with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Dice tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeño peppers for pico de gallo.
- Mince garlic.
- Mix tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, garlic, 1/4 cup cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl for pico de gallo.
- Shred romaine lettuce.
- Grate cheddar cheese.
- Warm flour tortillas in a tortilla warmer or microwave.
- Lay out a tortilla on the prep counter.
- Spoon cilantro-lime rice onto the center of the tortilla.
- Add seasoned black beans on top of the rice.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beans.
- Add a layer of pico de gallo.
- Top with shredded romaine lettuce.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla and roll tightly to form a burrito.
- Repeat assembly for remaining tortillas.
- Serve immediately (optionally using serving tongs).
Substitution
The Vegetarian Burrito from Qdoba copycat menu uses black beans, cilantro-lime rice, pico de gallo, lettuce, and cheese wrapped in a flour tortilla. If fresh jalapenos are unavailable, you can substitute with canned green chilies or a pinch of chili powder to maintain the spicy kick. Use pre-cooked or canned black beans for convenience, ensuring to rinse well to reduce sodium content. When preparing the cilantro-lime rice, lime juice can be replaced with lemon juice if needed, though the flavor will slightly differ. Your warm tortilla is best softened in a tortilla warmer or microwave to prevent tearing during assembly.
Tips
Rinsing the rice before cooking removes excess starch and prevents it from becoming mushy, ensuring fluffy cilantro-lime rice for your burrito. Warm the black beans gently in olive oil to enhance their flavor and prevent them from drying out during assembly. When chopping ingredients for pico de gallo, finely dice tomatoes and jalapenos for balanced texture and spice without overpowering the dish. Use a tortilla warmer or microwave just before assembling; warm tortillas are more pliable and less likely to tear when rolling your burrito.
Nutritions
The Vegetarian Burrito provides a balanced mix of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, predominantly sourced from black beans, which contain approximately 15 grams of protein and 15 grams of fiber per cup. Cilantro-lime rice offers carbohydrates and vitamin C from lime zest and juice, enhancing nutrient absorption. Fresh pico de gallo contributes antioxidants and essential nutrients like vitamin A and potassium, while shredded cheddar adds calcium and fat to support satiety. Your meal delivers a nutritious combination suitable for energy and digestive health without relying on meat.
Storage
Store leftover Vegetarian Burritos wrapped tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. Keep them refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days to ensure food safety and flavor retention. When ready to eat, reheat your burrito in a microwave or tortilla warmer until heated through for best results.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, swap cheddar cheese with crumbled queso fresco or Monterey Jack for a milder, creamier taste. You can replace flour tortillas with whole wheat or spinach tortillas to add extra fiber and a subtle flavor twist. Try roasting the jalapenos before dicing them for a smoky pico de gallo that adds depth to your burrito. If you prefer a vegan option, omit cheese and substitute the olive oil with avocado oil to maintain richness.
Allergies
The Vegetarian Burrito from Qdoba contains several common allergens such as dairy from the shredded cheddar cheese and gluten from the flour tortillas. If you have sensitivities to legumes, the black beans may also pose a risk for allergic reactions. Your best option is to check ingredient labels carefully and communicate with the restaurant to avoid exposure to allergens.
Why this recipe?
The Vegetarian Burrito from Qdoba restaurant is popular for its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and customizable options that cater to diverse dietary preferences. Its blend of seasoned beans, flavorful rice, fresh vegetables, and vibrant salsas provides a satisfying and nutritious meal option. You can recreate this beloved dish at home using simple, wholesome ingredients, allowing control over spice levels and portion sizes. Trying the copycat recipe ensures a delicious, cost-effective alternative that matches the original's taste and satisfaction.