tapa de ternera
/tapa de teɾneɾa/from spelling rules
The English phrase "top round" is translated into Spanish as tapa de ternera.
The term refers to a lean cut of beef taken from the upper part of the hind leg.
Which one should you use?
Substituting 'ternera' with 'vaca' is a common way to refer to the same cut of beef, as in tapa de vaca.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Chile or Colombia, top round may be called posta rosada.
How do you pronounce it?
/tapa de teɾneɾa/
Did you know?
- The word ternera shares its root with tierno, which means 'tender', though the tapa cut is actually known for being quite lean and tough.
- While tapa refers to a cut of meat here, it is more famously known worldwide as a Spanish appetizer. Both meanings share the root idea of a 'cover' or 'lid'.
- Because the tapa is so lean, it is traditionally used in Spain for cecina, a salted and smoked beef similar to jerky.
Examples in context
- Compré una tapa de ternera en la carnicería.I bought a top round at the butcher shop.
Example conversation
Lucía and Alejandro are at the butcher shop.
- Lucía¿Qué corte me recomienda para cocinar hoy, Alejandro?What cut do you recommend for cooking today, Alejandro?
- AlejandroLe sugiero la tapa de ternera porque es muy magra.I suggest the top round because it is very lean.
- LucíaPerfecto, deme una pieza de tapa de ternera, por favor.Perfect, give me a piece of top round, please.
- AlejandroClaro, Lucía, ahora mismo se la preparo.Of course, Lucía, I will prepare it for you right now.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
