In a large non-stick skillet, over medium heat, brown the ground beef, taking care to break it up into small, small pieces. Remove any excess fat, but not all of it.
Turn the flame down a bit and add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Saute, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes transparent.
Add the water and the spices. Stir well to mix the spices into the liquid thoroughly.
Cover the skillet and simmer for 15 minutes. This will allow the spices to work their way into the beef.
Remove the lid and continue cooking at a slow simmer until most but not all of the liquid has evaporated. Remove the skillet from the heat.
Serve immediately with your choice of tortilla, a lime wedge for squeezing, and the traditional toppings of lettuce, cheese, onion, tomato and sour cream.