Heat oil in a pan. To check if it’s ready, add one cumin seed, if it cracks right away, the oil is hot.
Add cumin seeds and asafetida. As the seeds crackle, add the tomato puree.
Add coriander powder, turmeric, red chili powder, salt, and sugar. Mix well.
Cover and cook for about 5 minutes, until the gravy thickens slightly.
Add all the vegetables and ¼ cup water. Cover and cook on medium heat for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally.(Vegetables should be tender, not mushy.) Add paneer and gently mix.
Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for 2 more minutes to thicken the gravy.(Add a little hot water if the gravy becomes too thick.) Turn off the heat. Add tomato slices, garam masala, and cilantro.
Cover the pan for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors blend.