Heat oil in a pan. Add bay leaves, black pepper corns, black cardamom, green cardamom, cinnamon stick, and cumin seeds. When the cumin starts to splutter add diced tomatoes and coriander roots and stem. Add red chilli powder and salt to taste. Stir well. Add half cup water. Cover and cook on low flame for 10 minutes. Open the lid occasionally to check. If water has reduced considerably, add some more water so that tomatoes do not get burnt.