Forget everything you know about “acquired tastes” — epazote is one of the most distinctive flavors your taste buds will ever accommodate. This pungent wild herb has a taste similar to fresh coriander and it takes a lot of getting used to.

Epazote is commonly available in its dry form at most Latin markets. So how do you find it? Look for flat, pointed leaves. It may be listed under the name “Mexican tea” or “wormseed,” as these are common nicknames for the wild herb.

This is a popular ingredient in several bean dishes because it is a carminative. Forget the Beano, a serving of epazote will cure any gas problems with ease. Sounds delicious!

An interesting tidbit: epazote is also known as a garden pest because of its harsh gasoline or kerosene smell, according to http://www.gourmetsleuth.com, a Web site that specializes in fine food research.

Now that epazote has several distinctive uses in bean dishes, people are feeling a little friendlier toward the plant.