Taco Bell's New Vegetarian Menu Will Even Convert Meat Eaters
Taco Bell has been in the vegetarian game for years—hello, bean burrito! But on Tuesday, the chain announced a *dedicated* meat-free menu with classic and new favs. And while personally, I have no qualms about taking down a couple of beef tacos myself, the veggie-friendly lineup is so good I just might convert.
When T-Bell invited me for a little sneak peak at an NYC Cantina location, I was in, but still a little unsure how this "not-so-new" menu (their words, not mine) was different than what we've seen before.
I arrived at the 8th Avenue location and immediately snagged a little chips and guac appetizer. Before long, a tray of Bean Burritos emerged from the kitchen. The first of four ~official~ vegetarian menu items.
Now I know it's a classic and all, but I've actually never tried the Bean Burrito. So when it landed on my plate, I was had high expectations. It was creamy, cheesy, and flavorful in a way that wasn't overpowering. And my biggest fear—that it would taste like something was missing—was debunked. There's a reason it's a Taco Bell icon. I doused it in hot sauce (fire, always) and ate way too much despite the PR team warning us to "save room." Call me a rebel.
Next we were on to the Black Bean Quesarito. It has nacho cheese, cheddar cheese, and a creamy chipotle sauce, so naturally, I was ready. And you know how sometimes vegetarian things...taste vegetarian? Well, this didn't. It was ultra-cheesy, had a great kick of spice, and felt indulgent in the best way. I shouldn't play favorites...but it was my favorite.
Going into this little experiment, I was probably most excited about the Crunchwrap Supreme. I stan the original! But when our third course arrived and went in for the bite, I was sort of disappointed. This one—which, FYI, is one of the newbies!—has black beans, nacho cheese sauce, lettuce, sour cream, tomatoes, and a tostada shell all wrapped up in a flour tortilla. The beans took center stage just a little too much for me on this one.
Finally folks, the 7-Layer Burrito was up. It's got refried beans, seasoned rice, guacamole, sour cream, a three-cheese blend, lettuce, and tomatoes. There's so much going on that if you were to add meat, it might be too much.
So bravo, congrats, we love you, T-Bell. You've got this whole vegetarian thing down so well I might just break up with my shredded chicken burrito.
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