Cut cabbage, onion, carrot, celery, and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces.
Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté the garlic.
Add all the chopped vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
Add tomatoes (canned or fresh) and water.
Season with bay leaf, salt, pepper, and other spices to taste.
Once it boils, reduce to medium-low heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes.
When the vegetables are fully cooked, turn off the heat and serve with the broth.