The crossword solutions for the term SCORCH, BURN THE SURFACE OF are SEAR. To SEAR means to cook food quickly at a high temperature, usually in a pan or on a grill. It is a cooking technique that uses intense heat to create a caramelized crust on the outside of the food while keeping the inside juicy and tender. The intense heat of searing also helps to seal in the natural juices of the food, resulting in a flavorful and succulent dish.