Stuffed Cassava Fritters with Ground Beef and Mozzarella

Directions

1. 1

   Peel and chop the cassava into chunks. Boil in salted water until very soft and nearly falling apart. Drain thoroughly.

2. 2

   Remove the tough central fibers and mash the cassava with a fork until smooth and lump-free — skip the food processor, the dough is too dense for it.

3. 3

   Transfer to a large bowl and let cool slightly. Add the egg yolks, margarine, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Knead until you have a firm, pliable dough. Set aside.

4. 4

   Make the filling: sauté the onion and garlic in a drizzle of oil, add the ground beef and cook over high heat, stirring, until the meat is dry and lightly browned. Season, let cool completely, then fold in the grated mozzarella.

5. 5

   Wet your hands with cold water. Take a portion of dough, flatten it in your palm, place a spoonful of filling in the center, and seal by shaping into an oval fritter.

6. 6

   Dip each fritter in the beaten eggs and deep-fry in hot oil (175 °C / 345 °F) until deep golden brown all over. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.