When considering bean choices at Chipotle NYT recently highlighted their importance, and it’s clear why. More than mere fillers—they’re foundational to crafting a meal that balances flavour, texture, and nutrition.
Whether you swear by the earthy black beans, the creamy pinto beans, or opt to skip them entirely, your selection dictates the bowl’s protein punch, mouthfeel, and even how well it pairs with star ingredients like smoky sofritas or savoury steak.
When considering bean choices at Chipotle, NYT recently highlighted their importance, and it’s clear why. More than mere fillers—they’re foundational to crafting a meal that balances flavour, texture, and nutrition.
Whether you swear by the earthy black beans, the creamy pinto beans, or opt to skip them entirely, your selection dictates the bowl’s protein punch, mouthfeel, and even how well it pairs with star ingredients like smoky sofritas or savory steak.
The NYT crowned the black beans an “MVP of meal customization” for their versatility, but how do they stack up against pintos in fibre or protein? And what bean-based hacks unlock Michelin-worthy layering (think: contrasting textures with crispy veggies or balancing heat with cilantro-lime rice)? From macros to mouthfuls, we’re breaking down why Chipotle’s humble legumes deserve top billing.
Bean Choices at Chipotle NYT: A Look at Chipotle’s Bean Menu in 2025
Chipotle offers two core bean options—black beans and pinto beans—both seasoned with spices, herbs, and a dash of culinary magic. Here’s a 2025 breakdown:
| Bean Type | Flavor Profile | Protein per 4oz | NYT Mention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Beans | Earthy, slightly smoky | 8g | “A vegan powerhouse with zero compromise” (2025) |
| Pinto Beans | Creamy, mildly savory | 7g | “The comfort-food pick for purists” (2025) |
| No Beans | – | – | – |
Why the Buzz?
- Vegan & Vegetarian Appeal: Both beans are plant-based, aligning with 2025’s surge in flexitarian diets.
- Free Add-Ons: Unlike guac or queso, you can double up on beans at no extra cost.
- Texture Game: Black beans add firmness, while pinto beans melt into a creamy base.
For recipe ideas featuring Chipotle’s beans, visit Chipotle’s official partner site.
NYT-Approved Bean Hacks: How to Maximize Flavor
The New York Times praised Chipotle’s beans for their versatility. Here’s how to replicate their top tips:
- Layer Smartly
- Pro Tip from NYT: Start with a base of cilantro-lime rice, add pinto beans for creaminess, then pile on fajita veggies for crunch.
- Why It Works: Pintos mimic the richness of refried beans without the heaviness.
- Mix and Match
- Split your bowl with half black beans + half pinto beans for contrasting textures.
- Bean-Based Bowls
- Skip rice entirely and use black beans as your base (a NYT reader favorite for keto diets).
- Double Down
- Request “extra beans” at no charge—Chipotle’s policy still allows this in 2025.
Nutrition Face-Off: Black Beans vs. Pinto Beans
Wondering which bean fits your dietary goals? Let’s compare:
| Metric (per 4oz) | Black Beans | Fibre |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 120 | 130 |
| Fiber | 6g | 5g |
| Sodium | 210mg | 230mg |
| Iron | 10% DV | 8% DV |
Dietitian’s Take:
- Black Beans: Ideal for low-sodium, high-fiber diets (perfect for gut health).
- Pinto Beans: Slightly higher in folate, making them a hit for prenatal nutrition.
Bean Choice at Chipotle: How Chipotle’s Beans Compare to Competitors
The NYT noted that Chipotle’s beans outshine rivals in freshness and seasoning. Here’s the 2025 proof:
| Chain | Bean Options | Seasoning | Vegan? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipotle | Black, Pinto | Cumin, oregano, garlic | Yes |
| Qdoba | Black, Pinto, Refried | Lard-free (but salt-heavy) | Refried: No |
| Taco Bell | Refried only | Preservative-heavy | No |
| Moe’s Southwest | Black, Pinto | Mild chili powder | Yes |
Key Takeaway: Chipotle’s beans are fresher and bolder, with no artificial additives.
Behind the Scenes: How Chipotle Prepares Its Beans
In a 2024 NYT interview, Chipotle’s head chef revealed:
- No Canned Beans: All beans are cooked from scratch in stores daily.
- Seasoning Secrets: A blend of cumin, bay leaves, and poblano peppers adds depth.
- Sustainability: 95% of beans are now sourced from U.S. regenerative farms.
For a deep dive into Chipotle’s farm-to-table practices, check out this sustainability report.
5 Bean-Centric Orders You Need to Try (2025 Edition)
- The NYT Special
- Base: Pinto beans + brown rice
- Protein: Sofritas (plant-based chorizo added in 2025)
- Toppings: Roasted chili-corn salsa, lettuce, guac.
- High-Protein Power Bowl
- Base: Black beans + quinoa
- Protein: Double chicken
- Toppings: Fresh tomato salsa, cheese.
- Breakfast Bean Burrito
- Base: Scrambled eggs + pinto beans
- Add: Crispy hash browns (secret menu item).
- Vegan Fiesta Bowl
- Base: Black beans + fajita veggies
- Toppings: Tomato salsa, guac, lettuce.
- Kid’s Bean Cheat Meal
- Order a kid’s black bean taco, add free sides of chips + guac.
FAQs: Chipotle Beans in 2025
Q: Are Chipotle’s beans gluten-free?
A: Yes! Both black and pinto beans are gluten-free.
Q: Can I get refried beans?
A: Not officially, but mash pinto beans with a fork for a similar texture.
Q: Why did the NYT call black beans “the ultimate flexitarian staple”?
A: Their protein-fiber combo appeals to meat-eaters and vegans alike.
Q: Are beans free in double portions?
A: Yes—just ask politely at the counter.
The Future of Beans at Chipotle
There’s a buzz going around about Chipotle potentially adding a third bean to their lineup! Apparently, after the NYT published an op-ed discussing bean choices at Chipotle nyt, suggesting more legume diversity, they might be testing chickpeas in a few locations.
Word on the street is they have a “nutty crunch” that people are really liking, but we’ll have to wait and see if they decide to roll them out across the country.
Final Thoughts
Chipotle’s bean choices at Chipotle are more than just filler—they’re a canvas for creativity. Whether you’re replicating an NYT-recommended bowl based on their take on bean choices at Chipotle NYT, or inventing your own perfect bean choice at Chipotle, black and pinto beans offer endless possibilities.
You might even find a clue about a specific bean choice at Chipotle crossword puzzle! Next time you order, remember: the humble bean, a key part of all the bean choices at Chipotle, can be the star of your meal, especially according to some bean choice at Chipotle NYT reviews.