Now, let’s dive into the heart of the matter — bringing this flavorful recipe to life. Here’s how you do it:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they’re soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. The smell of sizzling onions always reminds me of those early morning kitchen adventures with my mum.
2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes. Remember to drain any excess fat.
4. Stir in the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let the spices toast for about a minute, allowing their aromas to envelop your kitchen.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
6. Stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice, adjust seasoning to taste, and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese if desired. Serve hot and savor the taste of the Mediterranean.