If pedant is confused about hard recipe initially, he seeks way to proceed (10)

I believe the answer is:

pathfinder

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'he seeks way to proceed' is the definition.
(a pathfinder looks for paths through something)

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

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(Other definitions for pathfinder that I've seen before include "Guide through unexplored territory" , "One on recce" , "radar device" , "Scout" , "Pioneer" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.

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