Heat oil in a large (6 quart)cooking pot over medium heat.
Add whole spices and whole green chili. If you split the green chili mid-way down the center, it adds more heat to the curry. If you don’t want that, just punch it once with a fork so it does not burst in the hot oil). Let splutter a few moments and then add onions. Sauté till onions are nearly ¾ brown stirring occasionally so that the onions don't burn around the edges This should take about 8-10 mins.
Add beef. Braise well for about 5 minutes until the moisture evaporates and the beef is no longer pink.
Add ginger paste, garlic paste, and spice powders. Continue to sauté for an additional 5-8 minutes.
Add the tomato paste and half the cilantro. Cook, stirring frequently until most of the moisture is absorbed and the oil starts to rise on the edges of the pan. About 10-15 minutes. This is the most important part of getting a good tasty curry. It is called "bhuno" or braising.
Add the hot water, stock, potatoes, and let cook until the potatoes are done. Approximately 20 minutes.
Serve in a deep dish and garnish with remaining cilantro.
Serve with plain rice or any Indian-styled pilaf and any Indian-styled non-curried vegetable. It can also be eaten with rotis, pita bread, or tortillas. My husband enjoys dipping bread in the gravy!