Carimañolas

Carimañolas

Carimañola (kah-ree-mah-NYOH-lahs)

Stuffed Yuca Fritters

Prep Time 30 min
📈 Difficulty Medium
👥 Servings
8
🔥 Calories 278 kcal

Golden, torpedo-shaped yuca fritters with a savory beef filling, crispy outside and soft inside — one of Panama's most beloved breakfast and snack foods.

Nutrition & Info

280 kcal per serving
Protein 12.0g
Carbs 35.0g
Fat 10.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

dairy-free gluten-free nut-free

Equipment Needed

pot deep fryer or heavy pot potato masher

Presentation Guide

Vessel: paper-lined basket

Garnishes: lime wedges

Accompaniments: hot sauce, suero

Instructions

  1. 1

    Boil yuca until very tender. Drain and mash until smooth with no lumps. Season with salt.

  2. 2

    Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Add ground beef and cumin, cook until browned. Season well.

  3. 3

    Take a handful of mashed yuca, flatten in your palm, place a spoonful of filling in the center.

  4. 4

    Fold yuca around filling to form a torpedo shape, sealing edges completely.

  5. 5

    Fry in oil at 180°C until deep golden brown, about 4-5 min.

  6. 6

    Drain on paper towels. Serve hot.

💡

Did You Know?

Carimañolas are so popular at Panamanian bakeries that they sell out within the first hour of opening every morning.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • pot
  • deep fryer or heavy pot
  • potato masher

Garnishing

lime wedges

Accompaniments

hot sauce, suero

The Story Behind Carimañolas

Carimañolas emerged from Afro-Panamanian communities who transformed yuca, a staple root vegetable, into an ingenious portable food. The technique of mashing boiled yuca into a pliable dough that encases seasoned fillings represents culinary creativity born of necessity. They remain essential to Panamanian breakfast culture.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed breakfast or afternoon snack 📜 Origins: Afro-Panamanian tradition

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