CarneAtlas

MerlanvsTopside

beef · Approximate equivalent

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

Both inside-thigh round cuts; merlan is a small specific muscle within the broader top-round group.

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 TopsideSee substitutes
Keep this comparisonSave Merlan and Topside 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
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Topside
Beef · Round

Top round comes from the inside of the rear leg, one of the leaner muscles on the animal. It has a mild flavor and firm texture that can be tough if overcooked. It is best…

TenderloinRoundBottom SirloinRibPlateChuckShort LoinBrisketFlankSirloinShankShank
Full details →

Names by country

CountryMerlanTopside
🇺🇸United States—Top round
🇬🇧United Kingdom—Topside
🇫🇷FranceMerlanTende de tranche
🇪🇸Spain—Tapa de cadera
🇲🇽Mexico—Tapa de aguayón
🇵🇹Portugal—Pojadouro
🇧🇷Brazil—Coxão mole
🇮🇹Italy—Fesa
🇩🇪Germany—Oberschale

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