Cut the onion, cabbage, carrot, and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces.
Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté the garlic.
Add all the prepared vegetables and stir-fry over medium heat.
Add tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) and water, and bring to a boil.
Season with bay leaves, salt, and black pepper.
Simmer over medium-low heat until the vegetables are fully cooked.
Finish with parsley if desired.