Is there a good way to create steamed milk, and preferably frothed too, without an expresso machine?
I’d like to make some “steamers” with flavored syrups and would prefer not to have to buy an expresso machine. Also could steam milk for Chai.
Is there perhaps a 'milk steaming machine"?
Here you go. I have no experience with them because I do have an espresso machine.
That stovetop boiler unit looks like what I’m looking for. 
I did get hits on Google when I searched for “milk steamers” but was hoping for an endorsement.
I do like Lattes, so maybe an inexpensive expresso machine would be better in the long run.
I’m not much of a coffe drinker. I use a Senseo machine to make a cup to drink while I drive to work. Other than that, I’d like to make Chai drinks with steamed milk, and the occasional latte.
Microwave it. If you don’t have enough flavoring in it that the preparation of the milk matters, then your problem is that you have not enough flavoring and not that you don’t have a steamer nozzle.
Ah, but also, better than the syrups is to use brown sugar and some vanilla extract (though technically that could be considered a syrup.) I would bet it is cheeper in the long run, and definitely tastier than any brands I’ve had.
Microwave the milk, and then froth it with a small battery-powered whisk (about $4-$5).
We’ve got one at home, but unfortunately I don’t recall the brand name. You should be able to find one with an online search, though.
I saw one of those at World Market where I was buying some Torani syrup. $10, batteries not included of course. Guess I’ll pick one up next trip. We have an outlet mall with a Kitchen Express not too far from the house. They might have the same thing.
Thanks.
If you do this, be sure to buy a pump-driven espresso machine, not a cheaper steam-driven one. The cost difference is noticable; but the quality difference is worth every penny. You will be disappointed in a steam-driven machine.