Chipotle Mexican Grill is finally launching its cauliflower rice in the U.S. and Canada.
The fast casual restaurant chain had tested its cilantro-lime cauliflower rice over the summer and is now releasing the plant-based menu item for a limited time, according to the company.
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Chipotle’s cauliflower rice is grilled and seasoned with hand-chopped cilantro, lime and salt, which is similar to the restaurant’s brown and white rice options, minus the bay leaves and lemon juice and higher calorie grain.
A single serving of its cauliflower rice is around 40 calories compared to the 210 calories its customers usually get from a single serving of brown or white rice, according to Chipotle.
The cilantro-lime cauliflower rice also has “4 grams of net carbs per serving,” according to Chipotle’s press release.
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Cauliflower rice can be added to burritos and burrito bowls, tacos, salads and kid’s meals. It is also cooked to fit in with Chipotle’s diet-focused lifestyle bowls, which can be ordered ready-made or modified to a customer’s liking.
So far, the cauliflower rice has been included in 4 new lifestyle bowls, which are compatible with vegan, vegetarian, Keto or Whole30 diets.
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“Chipotle fans have been craving more plant-powered, better-for-you options that align with the latest health trends and emphasize the benefits of real food,” said Chipotle’s Chief Marketing Officer Chris Brandt, in a statement. “That’s why we are thrilled to offer Cauliflower Rice nationally and help our fans achieve their diet or lifestyle goals.”
Starting Jan. 4, Chipotle Mexican Grill is offering cilantro-lime cauliflower rice in the U.S. and Canada for a limited time. (Chipotle Mexican Grill)
Opting for a filling plant-based option won’t come cheap, either. Chipotle is charging $2 extra for its cauliflower rice compared its regular brown or white rice options.
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The cilantro-lime cauliflower rice was tested in Denver and in parts of Wisconsin, according to a press release Chipotle issued in July.
Since then, the brand’s competitors have taken note of the trendy plant-based alternative.
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Qdoba Mexican Eats launched a cauliflower mash option nationwide last month while El Pollo Loco announced it would be adding a cilantro lime cauliflower rice option close to the end of 2020.
