Mix 1 cup water with 1 teaspoon cumin powder, some salt and quinoa in a pan. Bring it to boil. Reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer until water is completely absorbed. This should take about 15 minutes. Once done, take it off heat, cover the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, fluff it with a fork and let it cool to room temperature.
In a bowl, add cooled quinoa, grated beetroots, egg, breadcrumbs, flour, chili flakes and arugula. Give it a mix and shape into bite size patties. Allow the patties to rest in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.
Heat 3 tablespoons oil in a pan at medium heat and place the patties without over crowding it. Depending on the size of the patties, you might have to add more or less oil. It should take about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. Once done on one side, flip carefully and allow it to cook for 5 more minutes. Since I am always worried that it might remain uncooked in the center, I always bake it at the end for about 7 minutes at 350F.
Sprinkle some chaat masala or squeeze lemon/lime juice and enjoy while it’s still warm.
Notes
The cooking time will be less if you have already cooked quinoa.