Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a wok or kadai over medium heat.
Add garlic, ginger, green chilies, and coriander stems. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add cabbage, carrots, beans, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for just 1 minute (keep them crisp — don’t overcook).
Pour in 4 cups water or vegetable stock and bring to a boil.
Add soy sauce, chili sauce, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Mix cornstarch + water in a small bowl to make a slurry. Slowly add to the boiling soup while stirring.
Cook for 2 minutes until the soup thickens.
Add paneer or tofu and simmer for 1 more minute on low heat.
Turn off the heat. Mix in fresh coriander and spring onion greens.
Serve hot, topped generously with crushed air-fried noodles.