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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.

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
🇦🇷Argentina—Nalga
🇲🇽Mexico—Tapa de aguayón
🇵🇹Portugal—Pojadouro
🇧🇷Brazil—Coxão mole
🇮🇹Italy—Fesa
🇩🇪Germany—Oberschale

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