The process of quickly browning the surface of food by exposing it to extremely high heat. Food is most often seared in a small quantity of oil and is then cooked to the appropriate doneness using another cooking method such as roasting, grilling, or braising. Searing can be done in a frying pan, broiler, oven, or on a grill. Meat is a food that is often seared to provide a flavorful brown crust on the surface.