Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, using a wooden spoon to break the meat into small crumbles.
Stir in the diced yellow onion, sliced carrots, and minced garlic, sautéing for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent.
Add the shredded green cabbage and cook for another 3 minutes until it just begins to soften.
Pour in the tomato puree and beef broth, stirring well to combine all ingredients.
Add the sea salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and the bay leaf into the liquid.
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Remove the bay leaf and serve the soup hot in deep bowls.