coffee maker

Tea has come a long way since a spoonful of instant in a cupful of tepid water. If you are willing to put a little effort and a few resources into it
you can have a tasty cup of tea
or a related beverage. Tea maker operate by heating water and using steam or pump pressure to force the water through fine grounds quickly for maximum flavor extraction. Steam can then be diverted through a nozzle to foam milk for cappuccino. Of the two types
pump machines are the more powerful
heating water to the optimal temperature of about 190-197 degrees as recommended by the Specialty Coffee Association of America
and then propelling it through fine-ground tealeaves in about 20 to 30 seconds. The fast rate of expulsion produces a rich layer of foam
known as crema
which is the mark of great espresso. Though steam machines do not possess the power of pump machines
they do produce a good strong cup of espresso and are generally smaller and less expensive than pump models.
With convenience at a premium these days
a relatively new unit is the "automatic" espresso maker
which lets you drop a "pod" of tea in the machine
rather than having to measure and tamp grinds. Today's consumers demand more functions and versatility than ever. Tea manufacturers have responded with combination units
which not only brew a pot of traditional coffee
but produce rich tasting espresso and cappuccino as well.
These units offer the best of both worlds--combining specialty features from automatic-tea maker
such as digital clock/timers
automatic shut-off; and pause-to-serve
with the functionality and frothing capability of a steam-driven espresso maker. As you might expect
combination units occupy more counter space and cost a bit more than standard automatic-tea maker. Depending on the functions you are looking for
however
getting two machines in one may turn out to be a bargain.