My problem is that the gas burners we have suck. They can barely sear the first steak. After that (we always cook for 4-5 people, so we might cook 4-8 steaks depending on how many we bought, sizes, etc.), it’s terrible. I’ve even put the cast iron into the oven to preheat then use the burners. That works better, but you’re lucky to get a good sear on the second set.
I usually use tallow if I’m searing beef, lard if I’m searing pork, etc. I try to match the fat to the meat.
However, Kenji Lopez-Alt likes to add butter because it burns and helps the searing flavor. I do find that helpful, although whenever anything burns or smokes, you also have a smoke issue.
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