Add yeast and sugar to water; mix and let stand until it bubbles, about 5 minutes.
In a big mixing bowl, add flour, salt, and lard. Add yeast mixture and stir together until it forms a ball.
Turn the dough on a flat surface and knead it for 5 minutes. If the dough becomes too sticky during the kneading process, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of flour at a time on the dough. Do not add more flour than needed.
Oil a large bowl. Shape the dough into a ball, place it in the bowl, and cover; let it rise in a warm environment for about an hour or until doubled in size.
Divide the dough into 15 equal parts and shape each piece into a smooth ball. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it stand for 5 minutes.
How to shape marraquetas: Work with one piece of dough at a time. Roll out the dough with a rolling pin, then use your fingers to fold the dough into a log. Pinch where the seams meet.
To taper the ends, place your hands on the outside edges of the dough and roll with a little bit of pressure.
Place marraquetas on baking sheets, cover them, and let them rest until doubled in size. About 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 475F (246C) if you don’t have a convection oven and 450F (232C) for a convection oven. This takes between 15 to 20 minutes.
Fill a baking pan halfway with water and place it on the bottom rack of the oven.
Slash each marraqueta in the center with a sharp knife. Sprinkle a little bit of flour on top of the marraquetas.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, but check after 15 minutes. They should be golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let them cool in a cooling rack.