Heat the water over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Add the sugar and salt.
Gradually whisk in the cornmeal then reduce the heat to low.
Continue whisking on low heat until all the water is absorbed and the dough pulls away from the sides of the pot. This takes 3-5 minutes.
Transfer to a heatproof bowl, mix in the shredded cheese until melted and incorporated.
Allow the cornmeal mixture cool until you can safely handle it.
Divide the dough into 24 equal pieces and roll each into a 2 inch to 3 inch cigar shaped fritter.
Heat a large pan with 1 ½ inches of oil on medium until is reaches 350°F.
Fry the fritters in batches of 3. Gently drop them in the oil and allow them to turn golden brown on one side and then flip them over.
Place on a cooling rack over paper towels and allow them to drip.