Fry in vegetable oil until half fried and lightly browned. Drain on a plate lined with a tea towel and set aside.
In a large nonstick skillet, sauté the chopped onion in 2-3 tablespoons of plain olive oil over high heat for five minutes, then sauté over low heat for another fifteen minutes, until golden.
Add the ground beef and increase the heat. If using lamb, drain excess liquid.
Mash the meat with the back of a wooden spoon until tender, then add the seven spices, turmeric, cayenne, red pepper and salt. Cook an additional 10 minutes
When the ground beef is almost done, add the chopped cilantro and cook a few more minutes
Add the hash browns and sumac and mix for a further 5 minutes
Taste a potato to check and adjust the seasoning Requirement
Serve with warm meatballs or a delicious green salad.