A WELL-USED KITCHEN. A WELL-FED TABLE.
Technique Atlas / Heat

Sear. A browned surface.

Bring food into contact with a hot cooking surface to develop browning. The useful question is how the surface is changing while the rest of the food cooks.

Research & practical planningStirred Daily · research & practical guidance
A browned piece of meat resting in a skillet.
AI-generated editorial illustration

Set yourself up.

Use the pan and heat guidance in the recipe. Prepare a manageable batch, suitable utensils and a clear place for the finished food. Follow the pan maker’s preheating instructions.

Three things to notice.

  1. Surface moisture and crowding affect contact with the pan.
  2. Watch the contacting side and the recipe’s cue for turning.
  3. Browning is a surface observation; check the centre as the food requires.

Reach for the right tool.

A broad skillet, suitable turning tool and a food thermometer where required.

Explore the cookware guide ↗

Keep the limit in view.

Searing does not prove the inside is safely cooked. Use the appropriate internal-temperature guidance.

At the source

Original references consulted for this research edition. Manufacturer statements describe the named product; they are not our own test results.

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Sear. A browned surface.: Set yourself up.; Three things to notice.; Reach for the right tool.
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