But the sun seared the water ahead, a flickering glare, a plate of gold shimmering in the light.
Improvising survival tactics as he went along, he contended with searing heat, scarce water, tribal warfare, marauding lions, shattered axles, dodgy guides, and native helpers whose conflicting dietary superstitions made it impossible to settle on a commonly agreeable meal from the caravan's mobile larder of sheep and oxen.
A watery steak is anathema to pan searing - the water cools the surface to make it cook slowly, and may even "steam" the steak, giving a tough, leathery texture.
Each ladleful of water splashed on the rocks generated a searing wave of heat that the Finns call loyly.
In some cases they were forced to work without drinking water in searing summer temperatures.
Thai families doggy paddle near me, luxuriating in the bath-warm water and searing sunlight.
But the explosion of drug violence lingers in the background, even here in this seeming paradise of white sand, turquoise water and searing sun.
It was just one of scores of such hellholes where prisoners were beaten, tortured with electric shocks, burned with searing hot metal and water-boarded among other torments.
At Southpark Seafood Grill and Wine Bar, 901 Southwest Salmon Street, (503) 326-1300, lunch of fettuccini and seared scallops, with water, cost $13 including tip.
Once seared, add enough water to cover and lavender sprigs.
