The best replacement for sear is reverse sear.

The best alternatives to sear are rated as following:
★★★★★  reverse sear
★★★  saute
★★★  grill
★★★  braise
★★  seer
★  mind flay
  lightning link

Your alternative for sear is not listed? Suggest!
Speaking about sear, one probably shouldn't forget about infrared grill.

Other search terms related to sear and their ratings are:
★★★★★ infrared grill
You have in mind a companion for sear and it is not yet here? Propose!



Google Trends

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sear
reverse sear
saute