Curried Lentils with Poached Eggs

Name: Curried Lentils with Poached Eggs
Ingredients: 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; 1 1⁄2 tsp. curry powder; 1⁄2 tsp. ground coriander; 1⁄4 tsp. freshly grated nutmeg; 1 stick cinnamon; 1 bay leaf; 1⁄2 lb. dried lentils; Kosher salt and coarsely ground black pepper, to taste; 1⁄2 cup white vinegar; 8 eggs; Fresh cilantro leaves, plain yogurt and sliced, grilled toast for serving