In the bottom of a large pot, over medium high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef along with the garlic and onion.
When the beef has browned, about 8 minutes, add the carrots, celery, bay leaves and water to the pot.
Increase heat to high and add the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cover with a lid.
Once the stewis boiling, stir, and reduce heat to medium; add the green beans and sweet peas and simmer uncoveredfor about 15-20 minutes, until the carrots are tender.
Adjust seasoning to taste.