Forum Clarification needed please!
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Hi KitKat76
Max temp using the Varoma function on the TM31 is 114 and no it doesn't get hot enough to brown or caramelise.
I use the Varoma function when I want to sauté onions and garlic but it probably isn't as good as doing it in fry pan. That said the meals still turn out tasty and I don't feel the need to fry off over the stove first. I do do it for bacon and chorizo though as I like those meats a little more fried.
All that said I love my machine (had it about three months). I was a good cook before, but now I am cooking so many more adventurous meals. I absolutely love it, and if something happened to it I would replace it in a heartbeat.
Whilst you are trying to make up your mind I would suggest that you book into a cooking class demo. You can book through the Thermomix website and it cost $20. You'll get to see different things being prepared (and eat them) as well as ask questions in a non pressured environment.
Best of luck with your decision.
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Hopefully you get your questions answered....but I just had to tell you that my hubby was horrified when I told him I bought a Thermomix (due to price as he had never heard of one before and thought I had been sucked in) but he now uses it more than me!!!! 
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I really want to get a Thermomix and have atteneded a couple of demos. There are a couple of points I need clarification on as have been given different answers by different consultants:
1) Can you caramelise and brown in Thermie? I have heard yes and no - something to do with temp not being hot enough?
2) What about sauteing?
3) What is the max temp in the jar? Have heard 100, 114 and 120 - very confused!
Look forward to finding out the answers so I can have more ways of convincing hubby:). Thanks!