Wash onions, carrots, celery, cabbage, and other vegetables thoroughly, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic.
Add the other vegetables and tomatoes, and stir-fry for another 5 minutes.
Pour in water, add bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
Simmer over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes until the vegetables are soft.