Beef with consomme

1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef 1 large onion , quartered and sliced thinly 1 tablespoon ground cumin 1/4 teaspoon pepper 2 (10 1/2 ounce) cans beef consomme 1 (15[...]

3-4 pounds beef brisket, rump roast or pot roast 1-2 each onions peeled, sliced 2-3 each potatoes peeled, sliced 2-3 each carrots peeled, sliced 1/2 cup water[...]