When I fry carimanolas, they tend to break-up or pop and I am not sure why?

Question from Alya, North Carolina

Answer:

Carimanolas tend to have a mind of their own. Below are a few tips to make sure when making and when ready to fry:

1. Make sure that the ends of your carimanolas are pointed and not rounded
2. Do not overcook the yuca, it will make the dough too soft and will not withstand the heat from the oil when frying
3. Do not overcrowd the pan, that will cause the temperature to lower causing a soggy carimanola that could possibly pop open