Heat the oil in a large, heavy-based pan over medium heat, add the onions and fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown. Add the ginger and garlic pastes, coriander, curry leaves, chillies, chilli powder, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods and cloves and fry for 2 minutes.
Add the lamb and fry for a further 5 minutes, or until browned. Add 500 ml / 18fl oz {2 1/4 cups) water and cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lamb is tender and the water has evaporated. Continue to fry for a further 1-2 minutes until brown.
Add the vermicelli to the pan and fry for 1 minute. Add another 250 ml / 8fl oz (1 cup) water, cover with a lid and cook over low heat for about 8 minutes.
Sprinkle over the coriander leaves and lime juice and garnish with fried red chillies and cumin.