Know oil is hot enough when it forms “veins” (shimmering streaks)
Wait until the oil shows shimmering streaks/“veins” when moved before adding the food.
After adding oil, watch for it to loosen and form visible streaks like wine legs when you tilt the pan. That visual cue indicates the oil is hot and ready for searing.
The short version
- Look for streaks/veins in the oil before adding food.
What goes wrong
Adding food before the oil is hot
Wait for the oil to show visible shimmering/veins.
Why it works
Shimmering/streaking indicates the oil has reached a higher temperature suitable for browning.
Put it to use
Learn next
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