8 whole black peppercorns
8 whole cloves
4 whole allspice
2 black cardamom pods
1 star anise
2 tbsp. olive oil
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
3 small green chiles
1 medium carrot, finely chopped
1 stalk celery, finely chopped
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp. tomato paste
1½ tsp. curry powder
½ tsp. ground coriander
¼ tsp. freshly grated nutmeg
1 stick cinnamon
1 bay leaf
½ lb. dried lentils
Kosher salt and coarsely ground black pepper, to taste
½ cup white vinegar
8 eggs
Fresh cilantro leaves, plain yogurt and sliced, grilled toast for serving