1. Heat oil over medium high in a pot.

2. Add cumin, cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom into the oil.

3. Then add onions to mixture.

4. Cook onions to a light brown.

5. Add garlic and ginger.

6. Then cook to a dark brown.

7. Add salt, turmeric powder, chilies, and chili powder.

8. Stir in tomatoes. Occassionally stir until the mixture is reddish-brown.

9. Add meat. Stir thoroughly.

10. Cook over high heat for about 10 min.

11. Add water. (skip this step for chicken)

12. Cover pot and decrease heat to medium low. Cook until meat is tender, approximately 30 min. Stir occassionally and add water as needed.

13. Once meat is cooked add garam masala and mix well.

14. Add salt and chili powder to taste.