When it comes to Mexican-inspired fast food, few chains have gained as much popularity as Chipotle Mexican Grill. Founded in 1993 by Steve Ells, Chipotle has grown into a global brand with over 2,000 locations across the United States, Canada, the UK, and France. One of the key factors contributing to Chipotle’s success is its commitment to using high-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients. But have you ever wondered what they call pork at Chipotle?
A Brief History of Carnitas
To understand what Chipotle calls pork, we need to delve into the history of carnitas, a traditional Mexican dish that originated in the state of Michoacán. Carnitas, which translates to “little meats” in Spanish, is a popular Mexican dish made from slow-cooked pork that’s been braised in its own lard. The resulting meat is tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
Carnitas has been a staple of Mexican cuisine for centuries, with its origins dating back to the time of the Aztecs. The dish was originally made with pork shoulder, which was slow-cooked in a pit oven over an open flame. The pork was then shredded and fried in its own lard, creating a crispy exterior and a tender interior.
Chipotle’s Take on Carnitas
So, what do they call pork at Chipotle? The answer is carnitas. Chipotle’s carnitas is made from responsibly raised pork that’s been slow-cooked in small batches to create a tender and flavorful meat. The pork is sourced from farms that meet Chipotle’s strict standards for animal welfare and sustainability.
Chipotle’s carnitas is made with pork shoulder, which is slow-cooked in a mixture of spices and herbs. The pork is then shredded and fried in its own lard, creating a crispy exterior and a tender interior. The resulting meat is full of flavor and is a popular choice among Chipotle customers.
Why Chipotle Chose Carnitas
So, why did Chipotle choose to use carnitas as their pork option? According to Steve Ells, Chipotle’s founder, the decision to use carnitas was based on the company’s commitment to using high-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients.
“We wanted to create a pork option that was not only delicious but also sustainable,” Ells said in an interview. “Carnitas is a traditional Mexican dish that’s made with pork shoulder, which is a more sustainable option than other cuts of meat.”
The Benefits of Carnitas
So, what are the benefits of carnitas? Here are a few reasons why Chipotle’s carnitas is a popular choice among customers:
- High-quality protein: Chipotle’s carnitas is made from responsibly raised pork that’s been slow-cooked to create a tender and flavorful meat.
- Sustainable option: Carnitas is a more sustainable option than other cuts of meat, as it’s made with pork shoulder, which is a less expensive and more environmentally friendly option.
- Full of flavor: Chipotle’s carnitas is full of flavor, thanks to the slow-cooking process and the use of spices and herbs.
How to Order Carnitas at Chipotle
If you’re looking to try Chipotle’s carnitas, here’s how to order it:
- Burrito bowl: Order a burrito bowl with carnitas, rice, beans, and your choice of toppings.
- Tacos: Order a taco with carnitas, salsa, and your choice of toppings.
- Salad: Order a salad with carnitas, mixed greens, and your choice of toppings.
Customizing Your Carnitas
One of the best things about Chipotle is the ability to customize your meal. Here are a few ways to customize your carnitas:
- Add salsa: Add a spoonful of salsa to your carnitas for an extra kick of flavor.
- Add guacamole: Add a spoonful of guacamole to your carnitas for a creamy and delicious twist.
- Add sour cream: Add a dollop of sour cream to your carnitas for a tangy and refreshing twist.
The Future of Carnitas
As the demand for sustainable and responsibly sourced food continues to grow, it’s likely that carnitas will remain a popular option at Chipotle. In fact, Chipotle has committed to sourcing 100% of its pork from responsibly raised farms by 2025.
“We’re committed to creating a more sustainable food system,” Ells said in a statement. “Our goal is to source 100% of our pork from responsibly raised farms, and we’re making progress towards that goal every day.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, the mystery of what they call pork at Chipotle has been solved. Chipotle’s carnitas is a delicious and sustainable option that’s made from responsibly raised pork. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Chipotle or just trying it out for the first time, carnitas is a great option to consider. So next time you’re at Chipotle, be sure to give carnitas a try!
| Chipotle’s Carnitas | Benefits |
|---|---|
| High-quality protein | Responsibly raised pork |
| Sustainable option | Less expensive and more environmentally friendly |
| Full of flavor | Slow-cooking process and use of spices and herbs |
Note: The table above highlights the benefits of Chipotle’s carnitas, including high-quality protein, sustainable option, and full of flavor.
What is Carnitas?
Carnitas is a type of Mexican dish that originated in the state of Michoacán. It is made by braising or simmering pork in its own lard until it is tender and easily shreds with a fork. The pork is then typically shredded and fried until it is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Carnitas is often served with fresh salsa, warm tortillas, and refried beans. It is a popular dish in Mexican cuisine and is often served at special occasions and celebrations. In the United States, carnitas is often served at Mexican restaurants and is a popular option at fast-casual chains like Chipotle.
Why does Chipotle call their pork Carnitas?
Chipotle calls their pork Carnitas because it is made using a traditional Mexican recipe. The pork is braised in its own lard until it is tender, then shredded and fried until it is crispy. This cooking method is similar to the way carnitas is made in Mexico, and Chipotle’s use of the name is a nod to the dish’s Mexican heritage.
By calling their pork Carnitas, Chipotle is able to evoke the flavors and traditions of Mexican cuisine. The name also helps to differentiate Chipotle’s pork from other types of pork dishes that may be served at fast-food restaurants. Overall, the use of the name Carnitas is a way for Chipotle to add authenticity and cultural relevance to their menu.
Is Chipotle’s Carnitas authentic?
Chipotle’s Carnitas is made using a traditional Mexican recipe, but it may not be entirely authentic. While the cooking method is similar to the way carnitas is made in Mexico, the ingredients and seasonings used by Chipotle may be different. Additionally, Chipotle’s Carnitas is made on a large scale, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
Despite these differences, Chipotle’s Carnitas is still a delicious and flavorful dish that is inspired by Mexican cuisine. The company’s commitment to using high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods helps to ensure that their Carnitas is a tasty and satisfying option for customers.
What is the difference between Carnitas and other types of pork?
Carnitas is different from other types of pork because of its unique cooking method. The pork is braised in its own lard until it is tender, then shredded and fried until it is crispy. This cooking method gives carnitas a rich, unctuous flavor and a tender, easily shredded texture.
In contrast, other types of pork may be cooked using different methods, such as grilling or roasting. These cooking methods can result in a leaner, drier texture and a less rich flavor. Additionally, other types of pork may be seasoned with different spices and herbs, which can affect the overall flavor of the dish.
Can I make Carnitas at home?
Yes, you can make Carnitas at home using a traditional Mexican recipe. The ingredients and cooking method are relatively simple, and the dish can be made using a few basic kitchen tools. To make Carnitas at home, you will need pork shoulder, lard or vegetable oil, and a few basic spices and seasonings.
To start, you will need to braise the pork shoulder in its own lard until it is tender. This can be done on the stovetop or in the oven. Once the pork is tender, you can shred it and fry it until it is crispy. You can serve the Carnitas with fresh salsa, warm tortillas, and refried beans, just like they do at Chipotle.
Is Carnitas healthy?
Carnitas can be a relatively healthy option, depending on the ingredients and cooking method used. The pork shoulder is a lean cut of meat, and the lard used to braise it is a good source of fat. However, the dish can be high in calories and fat, especially if it is fried until it is crispy.
To make Carnitas a healthier option, you can use leaner cuts of meat and reduce the amount of lard used in the recipe. You can also serve the dish with healthier toppings, such as fresh salsa and avocado. Additionally, you can choose to bake or grill the pork instead of frying it, which can reduce the calorie and fat content of the dish.
Can I customize my Carnitas at Chipotle?
Yes, you can customize your Carnitas at Chipotle using a variety of toppings and sauces. The restaurant offers a range of options, including salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and shredded cheese. You can also choose to add beans, rice, or vegetables to your Carnitas, or to serve it in a bowl or on a salad.
To customize your Carnitas, simply let the server know what toppings and sauces you would like to add. You can also ask for modifications, such as no sour cream or extra salsa. Chipotle’s menu is highly customizable, so you can create a dish that suits your tastes and dietary preferences.