Cut cabbage, onion, carrot, and celery into bite-sized pieces.
Melt butter in a pot.
Add onion and sauté until translucent.
Add the remaining vegetables and minced garlic, and stir-fry for 3 minutes.
Add tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) and water.
Season with bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
Once it starts to boil, reduce to medium-low heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
Serve the finished witch soup in a bowl.