1/2 c  Unsalted cashew nuts

      3 tb Vegetable oil

      1 md Onion, finely chopped

      1 t  Garam masala, after a

           -commercial mix, or a
           -homemade blend (grind
           -together 5 cloves, 5
           -cardamom pods, 1 cinnamon
           -stick, 1 bay leaf, pinch of
           -mace unti powdery)
      1 t  Crushed garlic

      1 t  Crushed ginger

    1/4 t  Red chili powder or cayenne

           -pepper
    1/4 t  Coander powder (opt)

    1/4 t  Turmeric powder

      1 lb Boneless, skinless chicken

           -breasts, cut into 1" strips
    1/2 cn Crushed tomatoes

    1/4 c  Heavy cream

    1/4 c  Golden raisins

    1/2 t  Cardamom powder

  Place cashew nuts in small bowl and cover with hot water. Soak 30
  minutes and drain most of the water. Blend nuts in blender until they
  form a somewhat smooth paste that retains some texture. Heat oil in a
  saucepan or wok and saute the onions until golden brown. "Splutter
  fry" 1/2 teaspoon of the garam masala powder, and reserve the
  remainder to garnish the finished dish. Quickly add garlic, ginger,
  red chili powder, coriander powder and turmeric powder to the pan.
  Add the chicken and mix well until the meat is sealed with the
  spices, about 2 minutes. Mix in tomatoes and simmer until the chicken
  is cooked. Then add the cashew paste and cream. Bring to a boil. If
  needed, correct the consistency of the dish by adding water. You want
  a smooth, slightly thick sauce. Raise heat and "fimmer" dish until
  the oil floats on top. Add raisins. Garnish with remaining garam
  masala and cardamom powder. Serves 2 as a main dish, 4 if served with
  other dishes.