Chicken Korma

Name: Chicken Korma
Ingredients: 12 to 15 raw almonds; 2 to 3 green cardamom pods; 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked peppercorn; 1-inch cinnamon stick; 2 to 3 whole cloves; 1 bay leaf; 1 tablespoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon salt , or to taste; 1/4 cup plain yogurt; 1 1/2 teaspoon shredded coconut , optional; Silvered almonds and chopped cilantro, for garnish; 1 1/2 pounds boneless chicken thighs , cut into 2-inch pieces; 2 tablespoons plain yogurt; 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 1/2 tablespoons ginger garlic paste; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 medium onion , thinly sliced, about 1 cup; 1/2 cup vegetable oil