Trim the excess skinfrom the chicken and put the pieces in a large bowl.

Place a medium nonstick pan/cooker over medium heat and add the oil. When small bubbles appear at the bottom of the pan, add the cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom, and saute for 1 minute. When the spices change colour and are fragrant, add the onions and saute for 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown. Add the ginger paste and garlic paste, and saute for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring continuously.

Add the turmeric, coriander, cumin, and chilli powder. Stir well.

Add the tomatoes and saute for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring continuously. Cook for 7 to 8 minutes or until the oil comes to the top.

Add the chicken and salt, and stir. Increase the heat to high and saute for 5 minutes or until the chicken pieces are well coated with the sauce. Add 1½ cups (300 ml) water and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

Transfer to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with the garam masala and garnish with the cilantro.

Serve hot with steamed rice or rotis or neer dosa.