Heat the olive oil in a large pot and fry the chopped bacon on medium-high heat until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside onto a plate, reserving the fat from the bacon in the pot.
Add the onion to the bacon fat and fry on medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and fry for another minute.
Add all remaining ingredients, stir well, and bring to a boil. Then reduce to a simmer and leave to cook covered for 45 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper to taste and remove the bay leaves before serving as a side dish.