CarneAtlas

MerlanvsPoire

beef · Approximate equivalent

These cuts are approximate equivalents — similar in character but with meaningful differences in preparation or exact cut.

Companion *morceau du boucher* — both small premium muscles on the round, both historically reserved by French butchers, both quick-cook tender cuts.

Translation takeaway

These are related cuts, but not perfect swaps. Use the table below to judge how close your local option is before buying.

Open MerlanOpen PoireSee substitutes
Keep this comparisonSave Merlan and Poire together for shopping, cooking notes, and future reference.
Merlan
Beef · Round

The third *morceau du boucher* on the round — a long, flat, tender muscle named for its resemblance to the fish *merlan* (whiting). Weighs 800g–1kg per side; produces 6–8 thin…

TenderloinRoundBottom SirloinRibPlateChuckShort LoinBrisketFlankSirloinShankShank
Full details →
Poire
Beef · Round

A *morceau du boucher* — one of the three small premium muscles on the round historically reserved by French butchers for themselves and their best customers (alongside merlan and …

TenderloinRoundBottom SirloinRibPlateChuckShort LoinBrisketFlankSirloinShankShank
Full details →

Names by country

CountryMerlanPoire
🇫🇷FranceMerlanPoire

Cook either one well

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