1. In a saucepan, boil 1 cup water; pour water over chiles in a small bowl. Let soak until softened, about 10 minutes. Drain; set aside. Combine chiles, curry powder, lemongrass paste, salt, and cloves. Puree until smooth, adding water if necessary.

2. Peel potato; cut into 3/4-inch pieces. Place in a bowl of cold water to prevent discoloring. Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes; place in a bowl. Sprinkle with cornstarch; toss to combine. Set aside.

3. Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add curry paste; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add onion and garlic; cook until they start to soften, about 4 minutes. Add potato, carrots, coconut milk, water, chicken, stock, and cilantro. Cover; simmer until chicken is cooked through, about 10 minutes. Uncover; simmer until slightly thickened and vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes more. Serve garnished with chopped peanuts and red pepper, if desired.