Chipotle makes their chips by slicing fresh corn tortillas into wedges which are then fried until crispy and lightly salted. These iconic crunchy and savory chips are a staple at chipotle restaurants and are the perfect vessel for scooping up salsa or guacamole.
As a fast-casual mexican restaurant, chipotle is famous for its delicious burritos, bowls, tacos, and salads, all of which customers can customize with a variety of fresh and flavorful ingredients. But the chain’s chips are equally well-loved by fans, and they’re the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
However, you might be curious about how chipotle makes its chips and what makes them so crave-worthy. Whether you’re a longtime fan or simply looking to perfect your at-home burrito bowl game, we’ve got the scoop on how chipotle gets those chips so perfectly crispy.
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From Corn To Chip
Corn isn’t the only ingredient used to make chipotle’s iconic chips. The fast food chain sources high-quality corn from farmers dedicated to sustainable farming practices. Once harvested, the corn undergoes a process called nixtamalization, a significant step in making chips.
The process involves soaking the corn in water and lime, which removes the husks and softens the kernels. This prepares the corn for grinding into a dough, which is then flattened and cut into traditional triangular shapes. The lime also adds a distinctive flavor to the chips, making them a standout in the sea of snack options.
So, the next time you snack on chipotle’s chips, you’ll know the story behind their creation.
The Magic Of Seasoning
Chipotle’s tortilla chips are so good, partly because of their famous blend of spices. This seasoning mix includes spices such as cumin and chili powder, giving the chips their distinctive smoky and flavorful taste. But seasoning isn’t the only secret behind their crispiness.
After frying, the chips are also salted and left to dry to perfection. The trick lies in finding the sweet spot for seasoning – not too much to overpower the natural corn flavor, and not too little to make them taste bland.
It’s a delicate art of balancing flavors. So next time you’re crunching on some chipotle chips, take a moment to appreciate the magic of their seasoning and the expertise that goes into making them just right.
The Frying Process
Chipotle’s crispy tortilla chips are a fan favorite. To achieve their signature crunch, the company begins with selecting the right oil for frying. They use sunflower oil, which has a high smoke point and a neutral taste, for their chips.
Temperature and timing must also be considered during the frying process. The chips are cooked at approximately 375 degrees fahrenheit for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Consistency is key, and chipotle maintains theirs by using automated equipment to ensure every chip receives equal cooking time.
So, next time you’re munching on a handful of these addictive treats, remember the care and precision that goes into making them perfect!
The Final Touches
Chipotle’s chips are a staple for any fan of the mexican-inspired cuisine chain. The final touches to chipotle’s high-quality chips are made through their inspection process. The chips are cooked in high oleic sunflower oil to create the perfect crisp.
From there, the chips are carefully packaged and distributed to stores for maximum freshness. If you want to enjoy chipotle’s delicious chips at home, they are available for purchase in-store or online. Overall, chipotle’s commitment to quality control and freshness ensures that their chips remain a top contender in the fast-casual dining industry.
Frequently Asked Questions On How Does Chipotle Make Their Chips?
How Are Chipotle Chips Made?
Chipotle chips are made by slicing fresh corn tortillas and then cooking them in hot oil. After cooking, they’re seasoned with kosher salt to add flavor.
What Ingredients Are Used In Chipotle Chips?
The main ingredients in chipotle chips are corn tortillas, oil, and kosher salt. The corn tortillas are made with corn masa flour, water, and a pinch of salt.
Are Chipotle Chips Gluten-Free?
Yes, chipotle chips are gluten-free. They’re made with corn tortillas, which are naturally gluten-free. However, they’re fried in oil that may also be used to fry items that contain gluten, so there is a risk of cross-contamination.
Are Chipotle Chips Vegan?
Yes, chipotle chips are vegan. They’re made with just corn tortillas, oil, and kosher salt, so they don’t contain any animal products.
How Many Calories Are In A Serving Of Chipotle Chips?
There are approximately 570 calories in a serving of chipotle chips, which is about 4 oz. This serving size also contains 27 grams of fat, 72 grams of carbohydrates, and 6 grams of protein.
Conclusion
After going through the process of making chips at chipotle, we cannot help but appreciate the complexity and care that goes into the preparation of every dish they serve. The simple but well-thought-out elements like the use of corn patty and vegetable oil, and the combination of various spices like cumin and garlic salt in making their chips give credence to their attention to detail.
Their adherence to natural ingredients, in line with their company’s philosophy, ensures that their chips are not only delicious, but also healthy. Furthermore, they make use of local suppliers where possible, proving their commitment to supporting local businesses and reducing their carbon footprint.
As we have seen, the secret behind making the perfect chipotle chips is not in any one step but a combination of carefully selected ingredients and a lot of effort. So, next time you visit a chipotle restaurant, take the time to appreciate the hard work that goes into making their amazing food.
