Transfer the chiles, cumin seeds, coriander seeds and peppercorns to a coffee grinder. Process into a fine powder. Add the turmeric to the mix. Process again.
Slice the onion. Chop the garlic. De-skin the chicken.
In a Dutch oven, fry the onions in clarified butter along with bay leaves, the cinnamon stick and a little salt - until the onions begin to brown. Throw in the 3/4 of the curry blend, the chicken pieces and tomato puree. Season to taste with salt. Turn the heat down to a simmer and stir. Cover the pot. When the chicken pieces begin to exude moisture (about 10 minutes), throw in the garlic and stir. Simmer for 10 more minutes. Add enough water to bring the water-level up to about 3/4 of the chicken's top surface. Throw in the remainder of the curry blend. Cover and simmer for 35 minutes.
Check the Curry for salt. Cut off the heat. Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes. Serve along with steaming, Basmati rice or naan flatbread.