As a rule of thumb, the cooking oil must be HOT. There isn't a preheat mode, so use the SAUTE mode to heat your cooking oil. While the oil heats, pat the meat dry and season. Using tongs, lower the meat into the pot and sear for 2-3 minutes undisturbed. Flip, then sear the opposite side. Continue until the surface is browned completely. Prop the meat upright against the inner pot to sear the sides.