A process for infusing a consumable substance is described. The process includes the steps of placing a desired amount of an infusion material into a chamber at atmospheric pressure, placing a desired amount of consumable substance into said chamber, sealing said chamber from the surrounding atmosphere, and applying at least one reduced pressure cycle within said chamber. Methods for separating the infusion material from the consumable substance after completion of the infusion process are also described. In addition, devices for infusing liquids or consumable substances, and/or brewing beverages are described. The present invention relates to an apparatus for brewing beverages or infusing a consumable substance having a vessel, said vessel having a sealable chamber for holding a brewing or infusion material and a liquid or consumable substance, and a filter assembly connected to the sealable chamber； a liquid supply and conduit for introducing at least a portion of said liquid supply into said sealable chamber； and a vacuum source and conduit for reducing pressure in said sealable chamber.
