Food & Beverage

Chipotle testing cauliflower rice

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June 16, 2022

Chipotle Mexican Grill is piloting Mexican Cauliflower Rice at 60 restaurants in Arizona, Southern California and Wisconsin.

Prepared in-restaurant daily, fresh cauliflower rice is grilled in small batches on the plancha. The cauliflower rice is then seasoned with a signature blend of spices including garlic, cumin, salt and paprika to give it the rich flavor and vibrant hue of Mexican rice, according to a press release.

"After the success of our Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice last year, we are eager to test a second plant-powered start for any go to order," Nevielle Panthaky, VP of Culinary, said in the release. "Our guests crave real, plant-based options so we developed a new flavor packed recipe that aligns with our Food with Integrity standards."

In January 2021, Chipotle featured Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice across all U.S. and Canadian restaurants, resulting in an incremental sales lift while also attracting new guests. Chipotle estimates that one in five Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice orders in January 2021 was from guests trying Chipotle for the first time.

Mexican Cauliflower is vegan and Paleo- and Keto-friendly and is made with grain-free ingredients.

Chipotle has over 3,000 restaurants.