Sofritas – Copycat Chipotle

This recipe recreates the bold and smoky Chipotle favorite at home, with crumbled tofu simmered in a rich tomato-chipotle sauce. The tofu soaks up every bit of flavor, giving it a tender yet hearty texture that’s perfect for stuffing into burritos, piling onto rice bowls, or scooping up with warm tortillas. A blend of spices, peppers, and aromatics makes it both spicy and savory without being overpowering.

It works beautifully for meal prep since the flavors deepen as it rests, making leftovers even more delicious. Quick to cook and full of plant-based protein, it turns simple ingredients into a meal that feels restaurant-quality. Every bite offers smoky heat, tangy richness, and satisfying texture that pairs well with any of your favorite toppings or sides.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sofritas recipe delivers smoky, spicy, and hearty flavor in a totally vegan way.

Tofu crumbles: Tender and perfectly seasoned.

Chipotle-tomato sauce: Rich, smoky, and a little spicy.

Quick cooking: Ready in under 30 minutes.

Meal-prep friendly: Flavors get better the next day.

Versatile: Perfect for burritos, tacos, bowls, or nachos.

It’s easy to customize with extra spice, added veggies, or different toppings depending on how you love your Mexican-inspired meals.

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Ingredients

For the Tofu Base:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and crumbled
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

For the Sauce:

• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo, minced
• 1 tbsp adobo sauce (from the can)
• 1 red bell pepper, roasted or sautéed
• 1 medium tomato, diced (or ½ cup canned)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or sugar
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup vegetable broth

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh cilantro
• Sliced avocado
• Lime wedges
• Pickled jalapeños

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Tofu

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble the pressed tofu into the pan and cook until lightly golden and slightly crispy on the edges. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

2. Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, sauté onion until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Stir in chipotle, adobo sauce, roasted pepper, tomato, paprika, cumin, chili powder, soy sauce, and maple syrup. Let it cook down for a few minutes until everything melds together.

3. Blend for Smoothness

Transfer the sauce mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender. Add vegetable broth and blend until smooth and thick. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

4. Simmer the Sofritas

Pour the blended sauce back into the skillet. Stir in the cooked tofu and let everything simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb all the smoky, spicy flavors.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Spoon sofritas into bowls, tacos, or burritos. Garnish with cilantro, avocado, or lime juice for brightness.

Tips & Variations

• Extra Heat: Add another chipotle or a pinch of cayenne.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in corn, zucchini, or spinach for more texture.
• Shortcut: Use jarred roasted peppers to save time.
• Protein Twist: Try tempeh or lentils instead of tofu.

Serving Suggestions

This sofritas works great in burrito bowls with rice, beans, and fajita veggies. It also shines in tacos topped with guacamole and salsa, or as a nacho topping for game night. Pair with a side of chips and salsa or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Sofritas brings smoky chipotle flavor and hearty tofu together in a dish that’s versatile, quick, and deeply satisfying. It’s a simple way to make plant-based meals exciting, whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a crowd. Flavor-packed and endlessly adaptable, this recipe is one you’ll keep coming back to.