Food Know How - Pineapple Weed

Pineapple Weed By Mary Kate Patterson

A relative of chamomile, pineapple weed is a unique edible plant that can up your next summer cocktail!

Pineapple weed, often called “street weed,” is a wild-growing plant found across the United States. It thrives in a wide range of conditions, so it’s an easy addition to any bar garden. The plant has a cone-shaped head similar to chamomile but without white petals. The leaves and flowers smell and taste like chamomile but sweeter and with strong tropical pineapple notes. Pineapple weed also offers a sweet herbaceous flavor.

Both the heads and leaves are edible and can be used in many ways behind the bar. The flower heads make for a fun edible garnish, while the plant can be used for syrups, infusions, teas, and more. Like chamomile, pineapple weed helps promote sleep, improves digestion, and creates a calming effect.

Pineapple weed pairs well with a range of spirits, including gin, champagne, and vodka. It is important to note, while it can work with whiskey and dark spirits, it can get lost in some drinks because the flavor is lighter.

Pineapple Weed Garden Gimlet

INGREDIENTS

2 oz. gin ½ oz. lime juice ½ oz. pineapple weed syrup*

PREPARATION

Combine ingredients in a shaker and shake with ice. Strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with speared pineapple weed flowers. *Pineapple Weed Syrup: Bring 2 cups of water and 1 ½ cups sugar (note: pineapple weed can be sweet, we recommend less sugar but adjust to taste) to a boil in a small saucepan until sugar dissolves; add pineapple weed (to prep pineapple weed, thoroughly wash and remove most of the leaves); reduce the mix to a simmer for five minutes. Remove from heat, let cool to room temperature and double strain into a sanitized container.